Papaver orientale ‘Plum Pudding’ (Oriental Poppy)

Blooming longer than most Oriental Poppies, ‘Plum Pudding’ (Papaver orientale) features large, crepe papery, cup-shaped, rich plum pink flowers with a dark eye and black splotches at their base. Borne on strong stems in early summer, the long-lasting flowers do not fade unattractively or flop. They may rebloom in late summer in some climates. Compact and robust, the sumptuous blossoms of ‘Plum Pudding’ will steal the show and draw attention when planted in small groups.

• Growing in clumps up to 30 in. tall (75 cm) and spreading 18-24 in. (45-60 cm), the flowers are generally 4-6 in. wide (10-15 cm) and rise on long stalks clad with thistle-like, silvery-green leaves.
• Prefers full sun to very light shade and enjoys rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Average garden soils are acceptable as long as drainage is good. This plant doesn’t respond well to high summer heat and humidity. Mulch in winter until well established.
• Easy to grow, long-lived, and virtually care-free, it is also deer and rabbit tolerant.
• Perfect for borders and beds, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. This plant goes dormant after flowering. Combining it with Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila paniculata), Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), or Shasta Daisy (Chrysanthemum x superbum) as a superb way of filling the gaps left by the dormant poppies.
• The seedpods that follow the fading flowers are also quite attractive and can be used in dried flower arrangements, or left in the garden for the visual interest they bring.
• This Oriental Poppy may be grown from seed and tends to self-seed in the garden.
• The best time to plant poppies is in the fall. Container-grown plants can be planted in spring.