Opium poppy (*Papaver somniferum*) was first cultivated approximately 5,400 years ago by the lower Mesopotamians. The Sumerians called it “Hul Gil,” which means the “joy plant.” It is used in the production of medical painkillers. The tiny seeds are commonly added as a topping on bread buns, but most portions of the plant are toxic if eaten.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Summer
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter, Late winter
Harvest Time
1 m
Plant Height
20 cm
Spread
Green, Blue, Silver
Leaf Color
3 cm to 10 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Green, Copper
Fruit Color
Pink, Red, White, Yellow, Purple, Orange
Flower Color
Green, Silver, Gray
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate
On This Page
Images
Culture
Cultivars
Toxicity
Care Guide
FAQs
Images of Opium poppy
Culture
Garden Use
The variety of colors that the flowers of opium poppy come in means that positioning them in the middle of borders and beds will create a lot of interest, with the seed heads providing textures as the short-lived flowers expire. This plant is highly suitable for wildflower, cottage, and prairie gardens.
Symbolism
Fertility, Love Sleep
Interesting Facts
In most parts of Europe, opium poppy seed is readily used for food, however, its use is restricted in the United States due to its association with the drugs opium and heroin. The chemicals in the plant that are used to make pharmaceuticals in the United States are typically sourced from Turkey and India.
Name Story
Opium poppy: Poppy is a feminine given name derived from the name of the flower "poppy" and also derived from the Old English popæg and referring to various species of Papaver. Its sap was later named opion by the ancient Greeks, from where it gained its modern name of opium. Therefore, it is called Opium poppy.
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Cultivars
There are several recognized cultivars of Opium poppy, including the following common varieties :
Opium poppy is highly toxic. The plant's latex and seed capsule contain toxic alkaloids leading to stupor, slow breathing, coma, or death upon consumption. Children, cats, and dogs are particularly vulnerable. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets display symptoms like respiratory depression or gastrointestinal upset after consuming it. Keep children and pets away. Opium poppy is refined into morphine and other painkillers.
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Water:
Opium poppy thrives in moist environments and benefits from consistent watering, ideally once weekly, avoiding waterlogging. While moderately drought-tolerant, it flourishes best with slightly damp soil. As an annual flowering plant, opium poppy displays vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.
Repotting:
Provide opium poppy with excellent drainage when using pots to ensure healthy growth and prevent root rot. Proper drainage is essential for maintaining moisture levels and overall plant vitality.
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