Species
Papaver somniferumOpium Poppy1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Papaver somniferum is a hardy annual poppy with glaucous green foliage and large, showy flowers followed by decorative seed pods. Note: It is illegal to cultivate this plant in many jurisdictions, including the United States.
The 'Lauren's Grape' cultivar is prized for its large, single, cup-shaped flowers in a stunning deep purple-burgundy color. The glaucous seed pods that follow are also highly ornamental.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
36 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
All parts except ripe seeds are poisonous
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer during active growth.
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy development.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds directly outdoors for natural growth; start indoors for an earlier bloom.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to promote healthy growth
- Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Fertilize with organic compost every 4-6 weeks
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not disturb roots during early growth
- Avoid using chemical pesticides; opt for organic pest control
- Don't plant in overly shaded areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lauren's Grape Poppy questions
What zones can Lauren's Grape Poppy grow in?
Lauren's Grape Poppy is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lauren's Grape Poppy deer resistant?
Yes — Lauren's Grape Poppy is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lauren's Grape Poppy bloom?
Lauren's Grape Poppy typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lauren's Grape Poppy need full sun?
Lauren's Grape Poppy does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Lauren's Grape Poppy drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lauren's Grape Poppy handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Papaver to compare
Iceland Poppy
Papaver nudicaule 'Mix'
Falling in Love Corn Poppy
Papaver rhoeas 'Falling in Love'
Brilliant Oriental Poppy
Papaver orientale 'Brilliant'
Pink Iceland Poppy
Papaver nudicaule 'Champagne Bubbles Pink'
Double Atlantic Poppy
Papaver atlanticum 'Flore Pleno'
Oriental Poppy Royal Wedding
Papaver orientale 'Royal Wedding'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Lauren's Grape Poppy with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.