Papaver Patty’s Plum

Papaver Patty’s Plum, commonly known as ‘Oriental Poppy’ is a captivating perennial plant that adds a touch of drama and elegance to gardens.  This cultivar is highly regarded for its stunning deep purple flowers and unique coloration, making it a standout feature in any landscape. It is prized for its rich, velvety blooms and its ability to bring a sense of enchantment to garden beds, borders, or cottage gardens.

Growing up to 1 metre in height and width, it forms a clump of finely divided, greyish-green foliage that serves as a striking backdrop to the bold flowers. The real showstopper is the large, papery flowers that emerge in late Spring to early Summer. The petals are a deep, lustrous shade of plum-purple, with a velvety texture that adds to their allure. The flowers are held atop tall, slender stems, creating a beautiful contrast against the foliage. The blooms have a delicate, satiny sheen and a mesmerising presence that draws attention from both humans and pollinators.

The blooms are relatively short-lived but are replaced by attractive seed pods that add visual interest to the plant as they mature. The seed pods are slender and elongated, forming interesting architectural elements within the garden. As the pods ripen, they release their seeds, allowing the plant to self-sow and potentially create a charming display in subsequent years.

How to care for your Papaver Patty’s Plum

1. Watering: Water the plant deeply and regularly during its establishment period. Once established, it requires minimal watering, relying mostly on natural rainfall. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as compost or bark chips, around the base of the plant to conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the soil. Leave a small gap around the stems to prevent excess moisture accumulation.
3. Pruning: Deadhead the spent flowers to promote continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding. After flowering, allow some seed pods to mature if you want to encourage self-sowing or collect the seeds for propagation.
4. Fertilising: Generally does not require heavy fertilisation. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for flowering plants in early Spring to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Follow the package instructions for the recommended dosage and method of application.

Papaver Patty’s Plum is a captivating perennial that adds a touch of elegance and mystique to UK gardens. Its deep purple, velvety flowers create a striking focal point and infuse the landscape with a sense of enchantment. With its easy-going nature and eye-catching blooms, this poppy cultivar is sure to become a cherished addition to your garden, captivating both your senses and the admiration of onlookers.