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Description
Papaver Rupifragum, commonly known as the Spanish poppy, is a perennial flowering plant native to the Iberian Peninsula. It belongs to the Papaveraceae family, which includes over 100 species of poppies. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and has blue-green leaves that are deeply lobed. The flowers are bright yellow with a black center and bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant is easy to grow and requires low maintenance, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Papaver |
Appearance
The Spanish poppy has blue-green leaves that are deeply lobed and grow up to 15 cm long. The flowers are bright yellow with a black center and measure up to 5 cm in diameter. They bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by round seed capsules. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads through self-seeding.
Care Guide
The Spanish poppy is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in most soil types. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly but not overwatered, as it can lead to root rot. Fertilizer is not necessary but can be applied in early spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spanish poppy is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids and slugs can also be a problem but can be controlled with insecticides or organic methods such as neem oil or beer traps.
Habitat
The Spanish poppy is native to the Iberian Peninsula, where it grows in rocky areas and along roadsides. It can also be found in other parts of Europe and North Africa. The plant is well adapted to dry, rocky soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Spanish poppy toxic?
A: No, the Spanish poppy is not toxic and is safe for humans and animals to consume.
Q: Can the Spanish poppy be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Spanish poppy can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are not overwatered.
Q: How often should the Spanish poppy be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer is not necessary for the Spanish poppy, but it can be applied in early spring if desired.
Q: How do you propagate the Spanish poppy?
A: The Spanish poppy can be propagated through self-seeding or by division in early spring.
Related Plants
- Papaver nudicaule
- Papaver rhoeas
- Papaver somniferum
- Papaver orientale
References
- “Papaver Rupifragum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16820/Papaver-rupifragum/Details.
- “Papaver Rupifragum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c420.
- “Spanish Poppy.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/spanish-poppy.html.
