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Description
Papaver Atlanticum, commonly known as Moroccan poppy or Atlas poppy, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the poppy family Papaveraceae. It is native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria, but it is also cultivated in gardens and landscapes around the world. This plant produces striking, cup-shaped flowers that come in shades of pink, orange, and red. The blooms are usually about 2 inches in diameter and have black centers. Papaver Atlanticum is a hardy plant that can grow up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Papaver |
Appearance
Papaver Atlanticum has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden or landscape. The plant has hairy stems and leaves that are deeply lobed and blue-green in color. The flowers have four petals that are crinkled and papery, giving them a delicate appearance. The blooms are held on long, thin stems that sway gently in the breeze. Papaver Atlanticum is a compact plant that forms a clump of foliage at the base, and it has a mounding habit that gives it a neat, tidy appearance.
Care Guide
Papaver Atlanticum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Papaver Atlanticum prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water your plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but be careful not to overwater it.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. This will help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Papaver Atlanticum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Papaver Atlanticum prefers full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate some shade, but it may produce fewer flowers in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Papaver Atlanticum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. It can tolerate some cold, but it may not survive in extremely harsh winters.
Common Pests & Diseases
Papaver Atlanticum is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it may occasionally be affected by the following:
Slugs and snails: These pests may eat holes in the leaves and flowers of Papaver Atlanticum. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of Papaver Atlanticum. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Papaver Atlanticum is native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. In cultivation, it is often used in rock gardens, borders, and other sunny locations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Papaver Atlanticum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Papaver Atlanticum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Papaver Atlanticum?
A: Fertilize your Papaver Atlanticum once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Papaver Atlanticum attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Papaver Atlanticum is a great plant to attract bees and butterflies to your garden.
Q: How often should I water my Papaver Atlanticum?
A: Water your Papaver Atlanticum regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but be careful not to overwater it.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Papaver Atlanticum:
- Papaver nudicaule (Iceland poppy)
- Papaver rhoeas (common poppy)
- Papaver somniferum (opium poppy)
- Papaver orientale (oriental poppy)
References
- “Papaver Atlanticum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285967&isprofile=1&basic=Papaver%20atlanticum
- “Papaver Atlanticum.” Plant Finder. Burpee. https://www.burpee.com/perennials/papaver/papaver-atlanticum-prod001578.html
- “Papaver Atlanticum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/249682/Papaver-atlanticum/Details
