Common Name(s): Oriental poppy Botanical Name: Papaver orientale Cultivar: Brilliant Type: Perennial Hardiness: Zones 2 to 9 Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade Water Requirements: Average Bloom Colors: Red Bloom Period: Late spring to summer Height: 18 to 24 inches Spacing: 9 to 12 inches Features: Showy blooms, good cut flower Precautions: None known Description: These vibrantly colored beauties are an eye catcher in most any garden setting particularly with ample sunlight. Foliage is comprised of spreading clumps of hairy grey-green divided leaves which give way to strong tall stems supporting single cup-shaped blooms in early summer. The delicate crepe-like petals in shades of orange, red, salmon, rose and scarlet surround a bold cushion of black stamens forming dramatic blooms that span up to 7 inches in diameter. Mature height is 24-36 inches. Packet contains approximately 150 seeds which germinate in about 14 days. Uses: Perennial in USDA zones 3-8. Plants are extremely harder, though winter protection in the form of a 2 inch layer of mulch is recommended in coolest climates. Plants perform best in full sun but will tolerant some shade. A rich but light and well drained soil will encourage the best specimens. Sow seeds direct when ground has thoroughly warmed in spring, or to peat pots indoors 4 weeks prior for earliest blooms (does not transplant well). Ideal for use in the center of mixed beds and borders as the foliage can become unsightly after bloom period. Provides a spectacular show of color in early summer and again later in the season when spent looms are sheared off. Combines well with plantings of coreopsis, lupine and baby's breath. Germination Requirements: Germination occurs in 1-3 weeks under warm, moist conditions.

• Seeds per packet: About 50

Seeds per packet: About 50