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Description
Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth is a beautiful perennial plant that produces large, striking flowers in shades of bright orange and red. It is a member of the Papaveraceae family and is commonly known as Oriental Poppy. This plant grows up to 36 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it an ideal choice for garden borders or as a focal point in a flowerbed. The blooms appear in late spring to early summer and last for several weeks, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Papaver |
Appearance
The flowers of Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth are large and showy, measuring up to 6 inches in diameter. They have four crinkled petals that form a cup shape, with a central black blotch surrounded by a ring of yellow stamens. The leaves are hairy and fern-like, with a bluish-green color. This plant has a taproot that allows it to tolerate dry conditions, and it can also spread through rhizomes to form clumps over time.
Care Guide
Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth requires moderate care to thrive in the garden. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and mulch around the base to help retain moisture. This plant needs full sun to bloom at its best, but it can tolerate light shade as well. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, and it should be protected from extreme heat or cold.
Common Pests & Diseases
Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections such as powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids and thrips can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth is native to central Asia, but it has been widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens around the world. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, and it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions. This plant is often used in garden borders or as a focal point in a flowerbed, and it can also be grown in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth?
A: This plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can I grow Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth?
A: Fertilize this plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: How can I control pests on my Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth?
A: Aphids and thrips can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and fungal diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Related Plants
- Papaver orientale
- Papaver rhoeas
- Papaver somniferum
- Papaver nudicaule
References
- “Papaver Orientale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c590
- “Growing Oriental Poppies.” Old Farmer’s Almanac. https://www.almanac.com/plant/oriental-poppies
- “Papaver Orientale Helen Elizabeth.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/papaver-orientale-helen-elizabeth
