Papaver somniferum Crimson Feathers - Opium Poppy seeds

Papaver somniferum 'Crimson Feathers' is an astonishing annual poppy with eye-catching flowers that resemble large, crimson-red pompoms bristling with light. They are borne on tall, sturdy stems emerging from decorative foliage. They are loved by pollinating insects and are followed by highly ornamental seed heads, often used in dried bouquets. Sow this poppy directly in place, in sunny borders.

The 'Crimson Feathers' annual poppy is a recent horticultural variety. Like all poppies, it belongs to the papaveraceae family. This variety is derived from Papaver somniferum var. nigrum, which is found in Asian mountains, as well as in Europe, on limestone terrains. This plant, probably native to regions between the Mediterranean and Asia Minor, has given rise to a multitude of varieties cultivated for ornamental purposes. 'Crimson Feathers' has glaucous, wavy foliage composed of beautiful lobed and elliptical leaves with a notched and toothed edge. From this 30 to 45 cm wide foliage clump, tall stems carrying solitary flowers 90 cm above the ground emerge fom June to August. They are bright crimson-red, very double, round, and formed by thin frayed petals. The flowering takes place between June and August. It is followed by characteristic, ornamental seed heads filled with small black seeds which take on slate blue highlights when drying, changing with the light, due to the crystallized wax film that protects them. Opium poppies have a taproot that does not tolerate transplanting well, which is why it is best to sow them in place. You can collect the seeds to sow them again the following year.

Opium poppies are suitable for sophisticated gardens, cottage gardens, and beginner gardeners. They quickly and effortlessly create charming waves of flowers, moving in their vibrant, dark, or pastel colours, dancing on the silvery foam of their foliage. While not very long-lasting when cut, the flowers of the 'Crimson Feathers' Poppy have a strong personality, further enhanced when planted en masse or in a flower pot. Sow your poppies among tall daisies (Leucanthemums), the swaying foliage of grasses or near your roses. This annual plant fills the empty spaces between annuals or large perennials such as Chinese peonies or delphiniums.