Papaver Beauty of Livermore
Papaver 'Beauty of Livermore' photo courtesy of Walters Gardens

Oriental Poppy

'Beauty of Livermore' features sizzling, cup-shaped red-orange flowers on tall stems. The crepe-textured petals  surround a black center. The fuzzy foliage stays low, letting the flowers steal the show. Poppies are very low maintenance and easy to grow.

 
  • Height: 71-76 cm (28-30 in)
  • Spread: 45-51 cm (18-24 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 3-7
  • Sun or Shade: Minimum 4 hours of direct sun
  • Bloom Time: late spring to early summer
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: red and yellow
  • Critter Resistance: deer
  • Nature Attraction: bees

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Poppies are gorgeous when in bloom but, after flowering, the foliage goes brown and then disappears. They must be planted with companion perennials like Baby's Breath that will cover the hole left by the poppy. Division must be done in the fall just as the plant breaks dormancy.  They will perform best in rich, well-drained soils in full sun. Plant divisions are best made in late summer or early fall.