Poppy 'Beauty of Livermere' (Papaver)

Where to Plant:

This is a classic and dramatic Oriental Poppy, producing huge, silken, pillar-box red flowers, each with a distinctive black blotch at the base of the petals. For the best display and strong stems, it must be planted in a position that receives full sun all day. It requires deep, fertile, and well-drained soil as it develops a long taproot that will rot in heavy, wet conditions. It is a perfect centrepiece for a sunny herbaceous or cottage garden border, where it provides a spectacular, if brief, show in early summer.

How to Plant:

Plant container-grown specimens in spring or autumn. If planting now, be aware the foliage will soon die back for summer dormancy. Choose its final position carefully as the deep taproot resents being disturbed. Dig a deep hole to accommodate the root, and gently place the plant in, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill, firm gently, and water well to settle the soil. Space plants at least 60cm apart.

Aftercare:

After flowering, the foliage will yellow and die back as the plant enters its summer dormancy; this is perfectly normal. Cut the spent flower stems and all the old foliage right back to ground level to keep the area tidy. New leaves will appear in autumn and persist through winter. The tall, heavy flower heads will almost certainly require staking with canes or a plant support ring to prevent them from flopping over.