Poppy is a genus of flowering plants in the family Papaveraceae, which includes approximately 70 species of annuals and perennials. Poppy plants typically have lobed or dissected leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The flowers form on tall, erect stems and can be single or double-petaled. The flowers have a distinctive cup-shaped structure with a central stigma surrounded by numerous stamens. They are typically followed by seed capsules that contain numerous small black or brown seeds.
Poppy’s colorful flowers and attractive seed capsules make it a beautiful addition to any garden. Some popular species for garden use include Papaver rhoeas, also known as the common poppy, and Papaver orientale, which has large, showy blooms in shades of pink, red, or orange. Poppy plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil, and they can be grown from seed or purchased as young plants.
In addition to their stunning blooms, poppy plants are also valued for their attractive seed heads. The seed heads of poppies are often used in dried flower arrangements or left in the garden to add interest and texture to the landscape. They are also a valuable food source for birds, who eat the seeds during the winter months.
Poppy plants are relatively easy to care for and require little maintenance once established. They prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be over-watered. They can be propagated by seed or division, and deadheading the spent blooms will encourage further flowering. One of the benefits of growing poppies in the garden is their ability to self-seed. Once established, poppy plants will often reseed themselves, creating a naturalistic planting scheme that requires little intervention from the gardener.