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Description
Papaver Somniferum Black Swan, also known as Black Swan Poppy, is a stunning annual plant that boasts dark, almost black, petals with a prominent, deep purple center. The flowers bloom on tall stems in late spring and early summer and are extremely popular in gardens and floral arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Papaver |
Appearance
Papaver Somniferum Black Swan grows to a height of about 2-3 feet and spreads about 1-2 feet. The flowers are about 4-5 inches in diameter and have a prominent, deep purple center surrounded by dark, almost black, petals. The leaves are bluish-green in color and are deeply lobed. The plant produces a seed pod that is about the size of a golf ball and is used to produce opium.
Care Guide
Papaver Somniferum Black Swan is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some guidelines:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Papaver Somniferum Black Swan is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues:
- Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves and flowers. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Slug and snail: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers. Use beer traps or copper tape to keep them away.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to wilt and die. Remove infected plant parts and use fungicides to control the disease.
Habitat
Papaver Somniferum Black Swan is native to the Mediterranean region but is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world. The plant prefers warm, dry climates and is often grown in gardens and as a cut flower.
Question and Answer
Q1. Is Papaver Somniferum Black Swan a perennial or an annual plant?
A1. Papaver Somniferum Black Swan is an annual plant.
Q2. Can Papaver Somniferum Black Swan be grown indoors?
A2. While it is possible to grow Papaver Somniferum Black Swan indoors, it is not recommended as the plant requires full sun to partial shade.
Q3. Can Papaver Somniferum Black Swan be used for medicinal purposes?
A3. Yes, the plant is used to produce opium which is used for medicinal purposes.
Q4. Can Papaver Somniferum Black Swan be grown in containers?
A4. Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Related Plants
- Papaver rhoeas (Common poppy)
- Papaver orientale (Oriental poppy)
- Papaver nudicaule (Icelandic poppy)
References
- “Papaver Somniferum Black Swan.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a192
- “Papaver Somniferum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/297151/Papaver-somniferum/Details
- “Poppy, Black Swan.” Burpee. https://www.burpee.com/flowers/poppy/poppy-black-swan-prod002188.html
