Crinkled, tissue-paper flowers in glowing sherbet shades nod on slender hairy stems through the cool months. Sow direct in autumn; the fine seed needs light to germinate.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 40 cm H × 20 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Iceland Poppy
Papaver nudicaule is a moderate-growing annual in the Papaveraceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall and 20 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Orange, yellow, white, pink and red flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Iceland Poppy
Iceland Poppy suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Iceland Poppy provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Iceland Poppy does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Iceland Poppy after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Iceland Poppy in the garden
Iceland Poppy earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, feeding bees and pollinators, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Iceland Poppy. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Iceland Poppy
Plant Sale lists Iceland Poppy as seed. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Iceland Poppy seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
