Last Updated on May 4, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There is something so captivating about poppies. Their bright colors and delicate petals can light up any field or garden. But did you know that there are many different types of poppies?
In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most popular varieties of these beautiful flowers. From the California poppy to the Turkish poppy, we will explore them all!
Related: 350+ Different Types Of Flowers With Names, Meaning and Pictures (Flower Categories)
Facts about poppies
Did you know that poppies are actually a type of flower? They’re beautiful and delicate, and they grow in a variety of colors. Poppies are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and they’ve been cultivated for centuries. Today, they’re grown all over the world.
Poppies have a long history of symbolism and meaning. In ancient Greece, poppies were associated with Demeter, the goddess of fertility and agriculture. In Roman mythology, poppies were used as an offering to Pluto, the god of the underworld. Poppies also symbolized sleep and peace in medieval Europe.
Today, poppies are best known as the symbol of Remembrance Day, which is observed in many countries on November 11. On this day, we remember the men and women who have served in the armed forces and lost their lives in battle. Poppies are also worn to support veterans and active-duty service members.
How to identify poppies
Poppies come in a variety of colors, but they all have one thing in common: their beautiful, bright blooms. Whether you’re looking for a red poppy to add some color to your garden or a white poppy to symbolize remembrance, here are some tips on how to identify poppies.
Look for the following features:
-Poppies have large, showy blooms that are often brightly colored.
-The flowers have four petals that are arranged in a cup shape.
-Poppies typically grow in fields or gardens and can reach up to two feet tall.
Related: Poppy Flower Meaning and Symbolism: What the Poppy Represents
Types of poppies
Poppies are a type of flower that come in many different colors and sizes. They are most commonly seen in shades of red, pink, and purple, but can also be found in white and yellow.
1. Arctic poppy (Papaver radicatum).
It is the northernmost member of the poppy family, Papaveraceae. The plant grows in a low rosette to 20 cm (0.79 in) tall with leaves up to 15 cm (59 in) long and 12 cm (47 in) across.
The flowers have four petals, each up to three cm (12 in) long, and are yellow with a basal blotch of orange-red. The stamens are shorter than the petals. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous seeds.
The Arctic poppy is found in the Arctic tundra regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is most common in Alaska, but can also be found in the northern parts of Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Scandinavia, and Russia.
The plant grows in dry areas with little vegetation, such as rocky slopes and mountain meadows. It is also found in wetter areas, such as marshes and bogs.
2. Armenian poppy (Papaver armeniacum).
It is a species of poppy native to the Caucasus and adjacent areas. It is a member of the Papaveraceae, or poppy family. The Armenian poppy is a beautiful flower that blooms in early spring.
The flowers are large and cup-shaped, with petals that are usually orange or red. The plant grows to be about two feet tall, and the leaves are dark green and deeply lobed.
The Armenian poppy is a hardy plant, and it is relatively easy to grow. It does best in full sun, and it prefers well-drained soil. The Armenian poppy is an excellent choice for a garden flower, and it can also be used as a cut flower.
3. Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis).
Bloodroot is a North American herbaceous perennial flowering plant native to woodlands in the eastern United States and Canada. The name “bloodroot” is derived from the reddish sap that oozes from cuts made in the root. Bloodroot is used as a traditional herbal medicine by many Native American tribes.
Bloodroot is most commonly found growing in rich, moist woods. It prefers partial to full shade, and a soil that is high in organic matter. Bloodroot blooms in early spring, with white flowers that appear before the leaves.
Bloodroot can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown as soon as they are ripe, in a cold frame or outdoors in a shady spot. Division can be done in spring or fall.
Bloodroot is best known for its use as a herbal medicine. Bloodroot has been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory infections, skin problems, and digestive issues. Bloodroot is also sometimes used as a cancer treatment.
4. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica).
The California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is a species of flowering plant in the family Papaveraceae, native to the western United States and Mexico.
The California poppy is considered an annual, although it may live longer in some conditions. It is also known as the golden poppy, la amapola, and copa de oro. It is the state flower of California.
The plant grows to a height of 20-60 cm (0.79-23.62 in). The leaves are alternately arranged, blue-green to olive-green, and often have a hairy surface. The leaf margins are entire.
The flowers are solitary or in clusters of two or three and have four petals that are erect to spreading.
The flowers are variable in color with most being orange, but they can also be yellow, white, pink, or red. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
5. Celandine Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum).
The celandine poppy is a beautiful yellow flower that blooms in early spring. It is native to the eastern United States and Canada, and is found in woods and meadows. The celandine poppy has two large petals and four smaller ones, and a yellow cup-shaped center.
The flowers are about two inches wide, and the plant grows to a height of about two feet.
The celandine poppy is a member of the poppy family, and its scientific name is Styphorum diphyllum. The plant is also known as wood poppy, yellowwood poppy, and American celandine.
6. Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas).
The corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is a species of flowering plant in the poppy family, which also includes the breadseed and opium poppies. The corn poppy is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world.
The corn poppy is an annual plant that typically grows to a height of 30-100 cm (12-39 in). The leaves are alternate, simple, and lobed. The flowers are solitary or clustered, and they have four red petals. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
The corn poppy is often considered a weed, but it is also grown as an ornamental plant. The corn poppy is the state flower of California, and it is the official flower of Remembrance Day in Canada.
7. Desert Bearpaw Poppy.
The desert bearpaw poppy is a beautiful flower that grows in the desert. It has a yellow center and orange petals. The desert bearpaw poppy is a symbol of hope for many people.
It represents strength and determination. When you see a desert bearpaw poppy, it reminds you to never give up on your dreams.
8. Dwarf poppy or Alpine poppy (Papaver alpinum).
It is a member of the poppy family, and is found in the mountains of Europe. It has a single flower with four petals, and is coloured white or pink. The plant grows to a height of 15 cm (six inches).
The dwarf poppy is found in the Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians, and other mountain ranges. It is also found in the Caucasus, and in some parts of Asia.
The plant blooms in June and July, and the flowers last for two or three weeks. The dwarf poppy is a popular plant with gardeners, and is often grown as a border plant or in rock gardens.
The plant prefers full sun, but will grow in partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil, and does not like wet conditions. The plant is drought-tolerant, and will survive in dry conditions.
9. Fire Poppy (Papaver californicum).
This beautiful little poppy is endemic to California, where it blooms in the springtime. The fire poppy is a member of the Papaveraceae family and is closely related to the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum).
The fire poppy is a short-lived perennial that grows to a height of 12-18 inches. The plant has bright orange-red flowers that measure two to three inches across. The petals of the flower are crinkled and have a ruffled appearance. The center of the flower is filled with black seeds.
The fire poppy is found in dry, open habitats such as grasslands, chaparral, and woodlands. In California, the fire poppy is found in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Santa Monica Mountains.
The best time to see fire poppies is in the springtime, from March to May. The flowers of the fire poppy only bloom for a few weeks and then they go to seed. Once the seeds mature, the plant dies.
10. Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus).
This plant is a member of the poppy family and is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. The plant has been introduced to North America and can now be found growing wild in some parts of the United States.
Greater celandine is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of two or three feet. The leaves are large and deeply lobed with a shiny, dark green surface.
The flowers are yellow and borne in clusters on stems that arise from the leaf axils. The fruits are small, round, black seeds that are contained in thin, papery capsules.
11. Himalayan Poppy (Meconopsis grandis).
This beautiful perennial poppy is found in the Himalayan mountains, where it blooms from late spring to early summer.
The plant grows to a height of 30-60 cm (12-24 inches), with large, cup-shaped flowers that are typically blue or purple in color. Himalayan poppies are not easy to grow outside of their natural environment, but they make beautiful and long-lasting cut flowers.
12. Hungarian Breadseed Poppy.
The botanical name for the Hungarian Breadseed poppy is Papaver somniferum. The plant is an annual and grows to a height of about 30-60 cm.
The leaves are bluish-green in color and the flowers are white, pink or red in color. The flower has four petals and a diameter of about four centimeters. The plant blooms in the summer months of June and July.
The Hungarian Breadseed poppy is native to Europe and Asia. It is cultivated in many countries for its seeds which are used in baking and cooking. The seeds are also used as a food source for birds and animals. The flowers of the plant are used to make tea.
13. Ice poppy (Papaver croceum).
This annual poppy is a must-have in any garden! It produces beautiful, delicate blooms that will brighten up any space.
This variety is easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. Ice poppy is also drought-tolerant, so it’s perfect for those hot summer days.
14. Iceland Poppy (Papaver nudicaule).
A beautiful little flower that blooms in early summer. It is a member of the poppy family and is native to Iceland. The plant grows to about 12 inches (30 cm) tall and has delicate, papery flowers that come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, orange, and red.
The flower has a single petal that curls back at the edges, giving it a ruffled appearance. Iceland poppies are very popular in bouquets and floral arrangements.
The plant is relatively easy to grow and does best in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and will tolerate some drought once established. Iceland poppies will self-seed and can become invasive if not kept in check. They are also short-lived perennials, so they may need to be replanted every few years.
15. Iranian poppy or Persian poppy (Papaver bracteatum).
The flowers of this species are large and showy, with four petals that are each broad and deeply notched. The flower color is most commonly a rich red, but white, pink, and purple varieties also exist. Iranian poppy grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a popular choice for gardens and parks due to its showy flowers and easy care.
Iranian poppy is a member of the poppy family (Papaveraceae). It is native to Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey. The plant grows to a height of 30-60 cm (12-24 in). The leaves are lobed and green, with a silvery sheen on the underside.
16. Long-headed poppy (Papaver dubium).
This pretty little flower is a member of the poppy family. It has lovely, delicate petals and a long stem.
The long-headed poppy is found in woods and hedgerows and loves to grow in damp, shady areas. This flower blooms from May to June and is a beautiful addition to any garden!
17. Matilija Poppy (Romneya coulteri).
Also known as the bush poppy, tree poppy, or bigbud poppy. It is a species of flowering plant in the poppy family, Papaveraceae. The flowers are large and white with yellow stamens, and they bloom in early summer.
The leaves are divided into 11-19 lobes and are covered in silvery-grey hairs. The plant grows up to three meters tall.
Matilija Poppy is native to Southern California and northern Baja California. It grows in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. The species was named after Spanish botanist Mariano Matilija (1724-1787).
18. Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum).
You might think of it as a pretty little flower, but this plant has some serious history. It’s been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and is the source of one of the world’s most addictive drugs: opium.
The opium poppy is native to Asia and was first cultivated in China around 3400 BC. From there, it spread to India, the Middle East, and eventually Europe. Opium has been used for centuries to relieve pain and induce sleep.
It was even used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. In the 18th century, opium became popular in Europe as a treatment for a variety of ailments including diarrhea, toothache, and pain during childbirth.
19. Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale).
The Oriental poppy is a beautiful springtime flower. The large, showy blooms are a welcome sight after a long winter. The Oriental poppy is native to Asia, and has been cultivated in Europe for centuries. It is a member of the poppy family (Papaveraceae), which includes both annual and perennial species. The Oriental poppy is an annual plant, and will not bloom again once it has been cut.
The Oriental poppy is most commonly found in shades of red, but can also be white, pink, or purple. The flowers are large and cup-shaped, with four petals. They grow on tall stems, and have a short blooming period of only two to three weeks.
20. Plume Poppy (Macleaya cordata).
Plume Poppy is a perennial herb in the poppy family, Papaveraceae. It is native to East Asia, in China and Korea. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions for its large leaves and showy flowers.
The genus name Macleaya is derived from Scottish botanist Mungo Park (1771-1806), who collected the plant in China. The specific epithet cordata means “heart-shaped”.
The leaves are large, up to 80 cm long and 50 cm wide, with a deeply lobed or pinnate shape. The flowers are white or pink, up to 15 cm across, with four petals. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous black seeds.
Plume Poppy is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine.
The leaves and roots are used to make a tea, which is said to have medicinal properties. Plume poppy tea is used to treat colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. It is also used as a diuretic and to treat stomach problems such as indigestion and diarrhea.
The plant contains alkaloids that can be toxic in large doses. Plume Poppy tea should not be consumed by pregnant women or young children. People with liver or kidney disease should also avoid drinking the tea.
21. Prickly Poppy (Papaver argemone).
This is a common wildflower of the western United States. It is often found in waste places, along roadsides, and in other disturbed habitats.
The plant grows up to two feet tall and has showy yellow or white flowers. Each flower has four petals and a large number of stamens. The fruit is a capsule that splits open to release many tiny seeds.
22. Pygmy Poppy (Eschscholzia minutiflora).
This species is endemic to California and is found in the southern Sierra Nevada, southern Coast Ranges, and Transverse Ranges. Pygmy Poppy is a small annual herb with yellow flowers.
The plant grows to be about 20 cm tall. Flowers have four petals and are arranged in a cup-shaped involucre. Fruit is a small, spherical capsule. Pygmy poppy is found in open disturbed habitats such as roadsides and fields. It blooms from March to May.
Pygmy Poppy is a beautiful little flower that is often overlooked. The next time you’re out hiking, keep an eye out for this tiny gem!
23. Semitic poppy (Papaver umbonatum).
The Semitic poppy (Papaver umbonatum) is a species of poppy that is native to the Levant region. The plant is an annual herb with a hairy stem and leaves. The flowers are white or pink and have four petals. The fruit is a capsule with black seeds.
The Semitic poppy has been used as a food source and for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The plant is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. The seeds can be used to make a nutritious flour.
The Semitic poppy is also known for its narcotic properties. The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) is a close relative of the Semitic poppy. Opium is made from the dried latex of the poppy plant. The Semitic poppy has also been used to make recreational drugs such as hashish and marijuana.
24. Spanish Poppy (Papaver rupifragum).
A beautiful poppy with a long flowering season.
This Spanish Poppy is an annual that originates from the Iberian Peninsula. It has naturalized throughout most of Europe and North America. The plant grows to a height of 30-60 cm (12-24 in).
The leaves are deeply lobed and hairy, with the lower leaves being up to 20 cm (12 in) long. The flowers are borne singly on erect stems and are orange-red, with a black center. The flower petals are crumpled, giving them a ruffled appearance.
25. Tulip Poppy (Papaver glaucum).
The tulip poppy is a member of the poppy family. The tulip poppy is an annual plant that grows to a height of 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in). The leaves are blue-green, with a basal rosette.
The flowers are white with blue streaks and have a diameter of about five cm (two inches). The flowering period is from May to August. The tulip poppy is native to the Mediterranean region.
26. Wind Poppy (Papaver heterophyllum).
Wind poppy is a species of poppy that is native to California. The plant grows to a height of 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in). The leaves are blue-green and deeply lobed. The flowers are white with yellow centers and grow in clusters. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.
Wind poppies are found in dry, open habitats such as grasslands and chaparral. The plants are drought tolerant and grow best in full sun. They are often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and vacant lots.
Related: 24+ Different Types of Windflowers to Admire This Spring
How to plant poppies
Poppies are a beautiful and easy to grow flower that will add color to any garden. They are also one of the few flowers that can be planted in fall and still bloom in spring. Here is a guide on how to plant poppies so you can enjoy their beauty in your own garden.
To start, find an area in your garden that gets full sun. Poppies need at least six hours of sunlight a day to thrive. Once you have found the perfect spot, it is time to prepare the soil. Loosen the soil with a shovel and mix in some compost or manure. This will help the poppies get the nutrients they need to grow.
Next, it is time to plant the seeds. You can either sow them directly in the ground or start them indoors and then transplant them later. If you are planting them directly in the ground, do so in early fall. Plant the seeds about an inch deep and water well. Once they have germinated, thin out the seedlings so they are about six inches apart.
Poppies are fairly low maintenance flowers, but they do need to be watered regularly. Make sure to water them deeply so the roots can grow properly. You should also deadhead the flowers as they start to fade. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
What is the best month to plant poppies?
If you want to plant poppies, the best time to do it is in the fall. This gives the plants a chance to establish themselves before the cold winter weather sets in.
In areas with mild winters, you can also plant in late winter or early spring. Just be sure to give the plants plenty of water until they are established. Once they are growing well, poppies are relatively drought-tolerant.
How to care for poppies
Sun and shade needs.
Poppies need full sun to part shade. They will do best in a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight each day. If you live in an area with very hot summers, it’s a good idea to give your poppies some afternoon shade.
One way to do this is to plant them beneath trees or shrubs that provide dappled sunlight. Another is to grow them in containers that can be moved into the shade during the hottest part of the day.
Watering needs.
Poppies need to be watered regularly, especially when they are first planted. They should be given a deep watering about once a week. In hot weather, they may need to be watered more often.
Be sure to check the soil before watering to make sure it is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
Temperature needs.
Poppies need cool weather to thrive. They should be planted in the fall and will bloom the following spring. If you live in an area with hot summers, plant your poppies in a spot that gets afternoon shade. In colder climates, choose a location that gets full sun. Mulch heavily around plants to insulate them from the cold.
Poppies are not frost-tolerant and will not survive if the temperature dips below freezing. If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s best to grow your poppies in pots that can be brought indoors when the weather gets too cold.
Soil Needs.
The best soil for poppies is one that is well-drained, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. If your soil is too heavy or poorly drained, consider planting your poppies in a raised bed. You can also add organic matter to lighten the soil and improve drainage.
Fertilizing needs.
Poppies are heavy feeders and will need to be fertilized every two weeks during their blooming season. Use a water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or 30-30-30. Be sure to follow the package directions for application rates. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots of your poppies.
Pruning poppies.
Poppies are best pruned in late winter or early spring. Cut back the stems to about two inches above ground level. This will encourage new growth and produce fuller plants. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the season to prolong blooming.
If you live in a cold climate, protect your poppies from frost by covering them with straw or burlap. Mulching with straw or leaves in fall will also help to insulate the roots and prevent winter damage. With proper care, your poppies will bloom for years to come.
Repotting poppies.
Poppies should be repotted when they become rootbound in their pots. This usually occurs every one to two years. To tell if your poppy is rootbound, carefully remove it from its pot and examine the roots.
If they are tightly crammed together and growing in a circle around the outside of the root ball, then it’s time to repot.
If you wait too long to repot, the roots will start to suffocate and the poppy will become stunted. When this happens, it’s difficult to revive the plant. So if you think your poppy might be rootbound, it’s better to err on the side of caution and repot it.
Here’s how to repot a poppy:
– Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. A pot that is too large will make it difficult for the plant to establish itself and could lead to root rot.
– Fill the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
– Carefully remove the poppy from its old pot, being careful not to damage the roots.
– Place the plant in the new pot and fill in around it with potting mix.
– Water thoroughly and place in a sunny spot.
Pests and Diseases.
Poppies are a beautiful and popular flower, but they can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common problems that poppy growers face:
* Aphids – These small, sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can also transmit viruses from plant to plant.
* Spider mites – These tiny spider-like creatures are difficult to see, but they can cause big problems. They suck the sap out of plants, which can lead to yellowing leaves and plant death.
* Fungal diseases – Poppies are especially susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis.
These diseases can cause leaves to yellow and drop off, and flowers to rot.
FAQs
How many types of poppies are there?
There are over 100 different species of poppy. The most common type of poppy is the Papaver somniferum, or opium poppy. Other popular types of poppies include the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) and the Oriental poppy (Papaver orientale). Poppies come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, white, and orange.
When do poppies bloom?
Poppies typically bloom in late spring or early summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, this usually occurs between May and June.
In the Southern Hemisphere, flowering generally takes place between November and January. The exact timing of blooming depends on the species of poppy and the climate conditions in a particular location.
Some varieties of poppy will re-bloom if the stems are cut back after the initial flowering period. This usually happens in late summer or early fall. If you want to enjoy a second round of blooms, be sure to Deadhead your poppy plants regularly.
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Conclusion
Poppies are a beautiful and versatile flower that can be used in a variety of ways. With so many different types to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. So next time you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching addition to your garden, don’t forget about these lovely blooms.