Welsh Poppy
Papaver cambricum · Papaveraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant welsh poppy: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Welsh Poppy
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- May to August
- Flowers
- Bright yellow or orange
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, finely cut, blue-green
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
Care
Light exposure
Plant your Welsh poppy in full sun or light partial shade to get generous flowering. This plant appreciates bright, well-aerated environments. Avoid areas that are too shaded, as these will slow down flower production.
Soil and planting
The poppy prefers well-drained soil that is poor to moderately fertile. It tolerates rocky or sandy soils very well, typical of rocky areas. Absolutely avoid heavy, clay or poorly drained soils that cause root rot.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season, particularly during prolonged dry spells. Once established, this plant is relatively water-efficient. Reduce watering in autumn and winter to encourage dormancy.
Fertilization
Undemanding, this plant only needs a light application of fertilizer in spring. Poor soil is actually beneficial, as excess nutrients promote foliage at the expense of flowering. A moderate dose is more than sufficient.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove faded flowers regularly to prolong blooming and encourage new flowers. At the end of the season, cut dry stems back to ground level. This operation promotes vigorous regrowth the following spring.
Health problems
Welsh poppy is generally robust. Watch out for powdery mildew in case of excessive humidity, and slugs which can damage young plants. Good drainage and proper aeration are usually enough to prevent most diseases.
Did you know?
The Welsh poppy, Britain's unique perennial poppy with yellow flowers, was once used in traditional Welsh medicine. Unlike its oriental cousins, it contains only a negligible fraction of alkaloids and enjoys a reputation as a gentle plant. Today, it mainly appeals to lovers of natural gardens and rock gardens for its bright, prolonged flowering.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Bleeding heartLamprocapnos spectabilis
- Corydalis flexuosaCorydalis flexuosa
- California poppyEschscholzia californica
- Opium poppyPapaver somniferum
- Solid-bulbed corydalisCorydalis solida
- Climbing corydalisCeratocapnos claviculata
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.