White Poppy (Papaver somniferum)
The white poppy, scientifically known as Papaver somniferum, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. This species is notable for its striking white flowers, which often feature a delicate lilac center.
Key Characteristics
- Height: Typically grows between 90 to 110 cm (3 to 3.6 feet).
- Flowers: Large, showy blooms that appear in late spring to early summer, primarily from June to August.
- Seed Heads: After flowering, the plant produces large, round seed pods that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Growth Conditions
The white poppy thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sunlight. It is usually sown directly into the ground in spring, as it does not transplant well.
For sowing white poppy seeds, the ideal times are:
- Spring: Sow from April to May for summer blooms. This is the most common time for sowing, as the seedlings can handle light frosts and cold temperatures.
- Autumn: In milder climates, you can also sow in the autumn for flowers the following year. This method allows for earlier blooms in the next growing season.
