30,000 Seeds

"In Flanders fields the poppies grow; between the crosses, row on row…" Thus wrote Lt. Colonel John McCrae, describing the vivid red flowers of the Shirley poppy, blooming between the trenches on the World War I Western front. Iconic as the symbol of the American Legion, this annual wildflower goes by many common names. It is also known as corn poppy, red poppy, field poppy, Flanders poppy, corn rose, red weed, and coquelicot. It shares the same scientific name (Papaver rhoeas) as the common red variety.

In addition to the vibrant pink and scarlet blooms, Shirley poppy produces a visually appealing seed pod that looks great in floral arrangements. The plant is suitable for beds and borders, cottage gardens, prairie gardens, cutting gardens and for naturalizing a plain area. This annual is cold-tolerant in USDA Zones 3-9 and will thrive in almost all Zones 1-11. It grows quickly, is deer-resistant and requires minimal maintenance.

Shirley poppies grow to a mature height of roughly 12 to 30 inches tall and spread a good 6 to 12 inches wide. The flowers, appearing on tall, hairy stems, have four rounded, paper-like petals that overlap one another. In addition to the well-known red blooms, some varieties produce white or pink blossoms during its extended (four weeks or more) summer bloom season. The hairy leaves are pinnately lobed, with toothed edges.

Papaver rhoeas is a prolific self seeder and the seeds can remain dormant in the soil for many years. They will grow quickly when the soil is disturbed, making them a great annual addition to your garden. Because of their brilliant colors, they are the perfect plants for attracting bees and butterflies, adding even more colors to enjoy.

Quick Facts

• Type: Flower
• Color: Pinks
• Height: 12" to 30" Tall
• Width: 10" Spread
• Season: Annual
• Zones: 3 to 9
• Environment: Full Sun

Sowing The Seed

Papaver rhoeas seeds grow best with a period of stratification, 4 weeks prior to sowing. Papaver rhoeas flower seeds are also best sown directly outdoors, when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. The root system of these popular flowers is pretty weak until they are matured, so transplanting is out of the question. Remove all unwanted plant life from your sowing area, turning the dirt, or replacing it with fresh soil. Sprinkle the seeds to the surface of the soil, on a calm day, making sure that no high winds can blow the tiny seeds away. Do not cover your Papaver rhoeas flower seeds as they require light to germinate properly. Pat down the soil to keep the seeds in place.

Growing Conditions

Papaver rhoeas flowers will enjoy an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day and thrive in temperatures of around 70F. The soil should be well drained and can be average to rich, although it prefers sandy soils most. Areas that consist of hard, compact soil will retain too much moisture, so mixing a light compost is recommended for improved drainage. Water daily, with a mist setting, allowing the seeds to receive an adequate amount of moisture.

Germination & Growth

Your Poppy seeds will begin to germinate within roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will reach a mature height of 12 to 30 inches tall, and can be spaced about 6 inches apart. Shirley Poppy / Papaver rhoeas are best established by the masses. Sowing a large sum of seeds within a small area will result in a beautiful sea of pink & red blooms.