Oriental Poppy — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Papaver orientale |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 10–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 12.8–18.3 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 365–730 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| Mature height (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–7 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Surface-sow seeds in early spring on well-prepared, well-drained soil; seeds need cool temperatures and light, so press firmly without covering. Oriental poppies bloom for a brief but spectacular 2–3 weeks in late spring to early summer with crepe-paper petals in orange, red, pink, or white up to 6 in across. Plants go dormant after bloom leaving a bare spot — interplant with late-emerging annuals like baby's breath or dahlias to fill the gap. Divide clumps in late summer while dormant; established plants dislike being moved during the growing season.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0