Corn poppy - Papaver rhoeas (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Corn poppy

Also known as: Field poppy, Red poppy, Cornfield poppy

The corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is an annual flower that carries great symbolism in many cultures. During World War One, the corn poppy could be found blooming between trenches in France and Belgium; afterwards, it became an international symbol of fallen soldiers. This poppy does not produce opium.

Scientific classification

Species

Corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

25 cm to 90 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 4.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Red, White, Pink, Orange, Burgundy

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Corn poppy

Distribution of Corn poppy

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated land, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The iconic red and black flowers of the corn poppy are a striking addition to a cottage garden, and they look quite impressive when planted in clumps in borders and beds. Gardeners can also maximize the impact of their bold color by backing them with a less showy plant, or placing them in front of rock gardens.

Symbolism

Fertility, Love, Sleep

Interesting Facts

Papaver rhoeas was one of the species first described by Carl Linnaeus in his publication 'Species Plantarum' in 1753. He gave it its botanical name Papaver rhoeas, combining the Latin word 'pappa', meaning food or milk, and the Greek word 'rhoeas' which means 'red'.

Name Story

Corn poppy||Field poppy: This poppy plant is notable as an agricultural weed, hence the common names include "corn" and "field". After World War I, it is regarded as a symbol of dead soldiers.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Corn poppy, including the following common varieties :

Corn poppy 'Bridal Silk'

Toxicity

The corn poppy is mildly toxic to humans, causing sedative effects and vomiting if ingested. Corn poppy seeds are particularly toxic to cats and dogs, resulting in gastrointestinal issues and distress upon ingestion. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets. Though corn poppy is a common ornamental and weed, poisoning cases are rare.

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Quickly Identify Corn poppy

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

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

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Corn poppy

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in temperate regions, corn poppy prefers well-drained soil and moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering ensures optimal hydration without waterlogging. Typically grown outdoors, corn poppy adapts to seasonal rainfall patterns, which influence growth cycles and flowering, supported by consistent moisture levels.

Fertilize: Corn poppy thrives with high-phosphorus fertilizers for root and flower growth, applied quarterly from spring to fall at half the recommended rate. Adjust application based on seasonal growth stages and water post-application for nutrient absorption while avoiding overfertilization to maintain plant health.

Pruning: Corn poppy features vibrant red flowers and requires minimal pruning. Deadheading in spring encourages blooming and prevents self-seeding. Post-flowering stem cutbacks rejuvenate the plant. Clean tools are essential to minimize damage, promoting flower longevity and health.

Propagation: In Spring, propagate corn poppy by sowing seeds, keeping them moist. Expect seedlings in 7-14 days; monitor for green shoots. To maximize growth, avoid transplanting to preserve seedlings during this critical stage.

Repotting: Corn poppy requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive and prevent root rot, ensuring optimal growth conditions.

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Images of Corn poppy

Distribution of Corn poppy

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Corn poppy

Care Guide for Corn poppy

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