Himalayan blue poppy - Meconopsis betonicifolia (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Himalayan blue poppy

Also known as: Himalayan poppy, Blue poppy, China blue

The story of the discovery of the himalayan blue poppy is complicated: its sighting in northwest China was included in a report in 1886 and again during an unsuccessful Mt. Everest expedition in 1922. The wide spread-out leaves give the blue blossoms a slightly-drooping bowl-shaped appearance with a loose cluster of golden anthers in the center.

Scientific classification

Species

Himalayan blue poppy (Meconopsis betonicifolia)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

6 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Blue

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Himalayan blue poppy

Care Guide for Himalayan blue poppy

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Himalayan blue poppy thrives in moist, alpine regions and requires regular hydration without waterlogging. Weekly watering is essential for its growth. As an outdoor plant in cooler climates, it adapts to rainfall, focusing on adequate moisture during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Himalayan blue poppy thrives with balanced fertilizers, particularly higher in phosphorus for blooming. Apply a dilute, water-soluble fertilizer biweekly during spring and summer, monthly in fall, and none in winter. Always water the soil before fertilizing to prevent root burn, and adjust based on soil fertility.

Pruning: Prune himalayan blue poppy in early spring after flowering to enhance growth and extend bloom duration. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid disease. Removing dead or overcrowded stems improves air circulation, reducing fungal infection risks and promoting vigorous blooms and overall plant health.

Propagation: Himalayan blue poppy is an alpine perennial from the Himalayas, known for its striking sky-blue flowers. Divide after blooming, ensuring divisions have growth buds. Plant in moisture-retentive, well-draining soil with dappled shade and provide careful aftercare to protect delicate taproots during establishment.

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