Papaver somniferum
Papaver somniferum
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Pl. F7DF — Papaver somniferum
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IOverview
Overview
Papaver somniferum, commonly known as opium poppy, is an annual forb or herb native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Corse, France, Italy, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, and Tunisia. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. Known for its edible parts—leaves and seeds—it is also cultivated for ornamental purposes. One distinctive feature of this plant is its height of about 0.6 meters; another notable characteristic is its light energy requirement, rated at 8 out of 10.
Quick answers
What is Papaver somniferum?
Papaver somniferum, commonly known as opium poppy, is an annual forb or herb native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Corse, France, Italy, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, and Tunisia.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Papaver somniferum support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Papaver somniferum thrives in light to partial shade and prefers a well-draining soil with a pH of 7-7.5. It is adaptable to various soils including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) types but performs best when the soil is moist. This annual plant grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed after the last frost. Ensure consistent moisture during the growing season for optimal leaf and seed production.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Papaver somniferum for the first time
7steps
Start with Papaver somniferum as an easy-to-grow annual, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH of 7–7.5. For containers, use a mix of light sandy, medium, or clay soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors and transplant after they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Keep the area weed-free.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and remove any yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 16 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 16 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 14 native· 16 introduced
Europe5 regions
native (4)FranceItalyPortugalSpain
introduced (1)Russia
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)BangladeshChina
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Greenland
Africa5 regions
native (4)AlgeriaLibyaMoroccoTunisia
introduced (1)Ethiopia
Broader regions
introduced:California, British Columbia, Argentina South, Bermuda, Argentina Northeast, Alberta, Colorado, Connecticut, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya, Hainan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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