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Corn poppy

How to identify Corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

Corn poppy, also known as Field poppy, Red poppy, Cornfield poppy

Corn poppy is characterized by its showy, bright red flowers that unfold to about 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in diameter. Each flower typically comprises four delicate petals and a black-brownish central ovary surrounded by prominent stamens. The petals are often marked with a black spot at their base. The thin, hair-covered stems can reach heights of up to 28 inches (70 cm), supporting pinnate leaves that are finely divided and grey-green in color. This annual plant completes its lifecycle fast, featuring copious spring and autumnal flowering.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Corn poppy

1

Bright red flowers with black spots at base, 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in diameter.

2

Hair-covered stems can reach 28 inches (70 cm), supporting finely divided, grey-green leaves.

3

Distinctive round fruit capsule, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) with disc shape top.

4

Coarsely toothed, pinnately lobed leaves with hairy surface and prominent veins, reaching 6 inches (15 cm) in length.

5

Slender green stem exuding white to yellowish latex, reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height.

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Detailed Traits of Corn poppy

Leaf Features

Corn poppy features distinctive hair-covered leaves that reach approximately 6 inches (15 cm) in length. They are coarsely toothed along the margins, presenting an overall lacy or feathery appearance. The leaves are pinnately lobed with deep, irregular divisions, giving them a uniquely intricate structure. The surface texture is hairy, contributing to a slightly rough feel. The veins are prominently visible, creating a patterned network that enhances the leaf's structural complexity and aesthetic appeal.

Leaf Arrangement

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Flower Features

The flowers of corn poppy are large and showy, measuring 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) across. They feature four crinkly, vivid red petals, each commonly adorned with a distinctive black spot at the base. Blooming in spring and fall, these flowers are known for their striking appearance. Arranged in a single-layer fashion, the petals create a captivating contrast with their central markings. Although scent is not a prominent feature, they make excellent cut flowers if the stem end is burned immediately after cutting.

Corn poppy Flower imageCorn poppy Flower imageCorn poppy Flower image
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Stem Features

The stem of corn poppy is typically erect, covered with coarse, rough hairs that protrude at right angles to the surface. When damaged, it exudes a white to yellowish latex. The stem is usually green, slender, and can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height. It is generally unbranched except near the top where the flowers appear. This texture and the presence of latex are key identifying features.

Corn poppy Stem image
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Fruit Features

The fruit of corn poppy is a distinctive capsule, round and slightly flattened with a distinctive disc shape at the top. Typically around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter, the capsule is crowned with a ring of rayed stigmatic lobes that remain after the petals have fallen. The surface is a smooth, pale green, drying to beige. Upon maturity, the capsule's top lifts to reveal a series of pores around the upper rim, from which tiny, numerous seeds are dispersed by the shaking action of the wind.

Corn poppy Fruit image
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Key Facts About Corn poppy

Attributes of Corn poppy
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial, Biennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
25 cm to 90 cm
Spread
30 cm to 90 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 4.5 cm
Flower Color
Red
White
Pink
Orange
Burgundy
Fruit Color
Black
Stem Color
Green
Red
Leaf type
Deciduous
The Toxicity of Corn poppy
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Scientific Classification of Corn poppy

Family
Poppy
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Genus
Poppies
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Species
Corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas)
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Distribution Map of Corn poppy

Corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is native to all grasslands of Europe and similar parts of neighboring Asia and North Africa. This attractive poppy has also been introduced to South Africa, parts of North and South America, Australia, and parts of southern and eastern Asia. This plant is listed as an invasive species in Alaska.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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