Papaver rhoeas, known as Shirley Poppy, comes from Shirley, England where they were hybridized. This mix has shades of lilac, pink, and red with no dark eyes. Some blooms are semi-double, some are double, and some have a ring of contrasting color around the edge called picotee. Grow Shirley Poppy in mass groupings for a stunning display of color. They also are perfect for naturalized landscape settings. Deadheading helps to encourage continuous blooms. If a few blooms are left to go to seed, these poppies are known for reseeding for next year’s display. Start the seed directly outdoors in a prepared seedbed in early spring. Press the seed into the soil but do not cover. Keep the seed moist until germination. At a temperature of 55 – 60F, germination usually occurs within 28 days. Space the plants 12 inches apart. Grow in full sun and in well-drained soil. Shirley Poppy is usually resistant to deer.
