'Ruffled Princess of Orange' Poppy brings bold, cheerful color to spring gardens in the North and summer gardens in the South, growing 18 to 24 inches tall and blooming prolifically with large, fringed flowers. The bright orange, satiny petals surround a dark seed capsule, creating a striking focal point amid the airy, gray-green foliage. These eye-catching blooms are carried singly on sturdy, bristly stems, making them a favorite for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Ideal for cut-flower arrangements, these poppies brighten any bouquet. Harvest blooms as buds begin to open and sear the stem ends to maintain freshness.
A Papaver orientale variety, also called Oriental poppy, 'Ruffled Princess of Orange' is a dependable perennial (Zones 2-9) with an upright, compact habit. While the clumps expand gradually each year, they remain well-behaved and non-invasive. Perfect for beds, borders, and group plantings, these poppies thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. In regions south of Zone 7, they may struggle with summer's heat but are notably more tolerant than many other varieties, holding up well in challenging weather.
Plant 'Ruffled Princess of Orange' poppy roots in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Although they thrive in average or even poor soils, soggy conditions should be avoided. In Zones 2-6, a layer of mulch or pine needles provides valuable winter protection. After blooming, let the plants naturally die back in summer, withholding water to ensure dormancy. These hardy plants are also deer resistant, making them a reliable choice for any garden.
In spring, plant the roots 12 to 18 inches apart and bury them 1 inch deep. Choose the location wisely, as established poppies prefer not to be moved. If necessary, divide or transplant them in fall to minimize disruption.
