Papaver rupifragum 'Orange Feathers'
Spanish poppy syn. Papaver rupifragum 'Flore Pleno'
Fluttering like flames in the summer breeze, clusters of frilly, double-petaled blooms rise on multiple stems in never-ending succession. Papaver...
9cm pot
£9.99
available to order from autumn
3 × 9cm pots
£22.99
£7.66 each
available to order from autumn
1
Plant description
Fluttering like flames in the summer breeze, clusters of frilly, double-petaled blooms rise on multiple stems in never-ending succession. Papaver rupifragum 'Orange Feathers' sets borders ablaze with its papery, terracotta-orange flowers, each bloom a delicate composition of ruffled petals that catch and hold the light.
This long-lived perennial, botanically known as P. rupifragum 'Flore Pleno', thrives in poor, well-drained soils where it creates self-sustaining clumps through generous self-seeding.
Perfect for gravel gardens, cottage borders, or any sun-drenched spot where its vivid blooms can weave through neighbouring plants, this easy-care poppy brings both drama and delicacy to summer displays.
This long-lived perennial, botanically known as P. rupifragum 'Flore Pleno', thrives in poor, well-drained soils where it creates self-sustaining clumps through generous self-seeding.
Perfect for gravel gardens, cottage borders, or any sun-drenched spot where its vivid blooms can weave through neighbouring plants, this easy-care poppy brings both drama and delicacy to summer displays.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Papaver rupifragum Orange Feathers:
Plant this Spanish poppy in full sun, choosing a spot with sharply draining soil to prevent winter rot. Avoid rich soils, as leaner conditions produce stronger plants and more abundant flowering. When planting, space specimens 30-40cm (12-14in) apart and incorporate grit into heavy soils to improve drainage.
While established plants are drought tolerant, water young specimens regularly until their roots develop. Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering season, but allow some late-season flowers to set seed if naturalisation is desired. Cut back flowering stems after the main flush to encourage a second showing, and trim foliage to the ground in late autumn.
Though generally disease-resistant, good air circulation helps prevent powdery mildew in humid conditions. These poppies work particularly well planted among grasses or other perennials that can support their delicate stems, especially in exposed gardens.
While established plants are drought tolerant, water young specimens regularly until their roots develop. Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering season, but allow some late-season flowers to set seed if naturalisation is desired. Cut back flowering stems after the main flush to encourage a second showing, and trim foliage to the ground in late autumn.
Though generally disease-resistant, good air circulation helps prevent powdery mildew in humid conditions. These poppies work particularly well planted among grasses or other perennials that can support their delicate stems, especially in exposed gardens.
Please note:
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
