Species

Papaver orientaleOriental Poppy

14 other cultivars

perennial

Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen'

Papaver orientale 'Raspberry Queen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Oriental poppy known for its large, showy flowers and unique coloration.

Raspberry Queen features ruffled petals and deep raspberry color, which is distinct among the poppy cultivars.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant raspberry flowers create striking garden focal points and attract pollinators.

Ideal for cut flower arrangements with long-lasting blooms.

Supports bees and beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

SpeciesPapaver orientaleOriental Poppy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly every few days to maintain humidity during propagation.
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6 weeks for optimal growth.
Prune dead or faded flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain plant health.
Divide clumps in early spring or fall to propagate and control size.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors for natural growth and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming
Use mulch to retain soil moisture
Provide full sun for best flowering
Fertilize in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t plant in dense shade, as it reduces flowering
Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
Avoid disturbing roots during flowering period

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid perennial border with vibrant raspberry flowersWildflower meadow for striking color contrastCut flower garden for fresh bouquets

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Coreopsis EchinaceaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' questions

What zones can Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' grow in?

Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen', especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' bloom?

Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' 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 Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' need full sun?

Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Oriental Poppy 'Raspberry Queen' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.