Description
A bold and fiery presence in early summer, Papaver bracteatum—the great scarlet poppy—erupts with massive, deep red blooms up to 8 inches across, each marked by a dark central blotch. Held aloft on stiff, unbranched stems that reach up to 4 feet tall, the flowers tower above a clump of bristly, dissected foliage. Native to northern Iran, eastern Turkey, and the Caucasus, this herbaceous perennial thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. After flowering, the foliage dies back, leaving a brief gap before fresh basal leaves return in fall and persist through winter. Plant in undisturbed spots—its taproot resents relocation. Long-lived and self-sustaining, Papaver bracteatum adds drama and intensity to cottage borders and wild-style plantings
