Description
Papaver nudicaule 'Matador' | Icelandic poppy
The Icelandic poppy, or Papaver nudicaule 'Matador', is a vibrant perennial that graces any garden with its enchanting red blooms. Originating from the cool climates of subpolar regions, this poppy variety has been cultivated to bring a touch of the wild and whimsical to cultivated spaces. With its delicate, tissue-paper-like petals, the 'Matador' is a showstopper in any setting.
The Icelandic poppy is known for its ability to light up a garden with its bright colors and soft, nodding heads that seem to dance in the breeze.
Key Features
- The Papaver nudicaule 'Matador' is celebrated for its striking red flowers that bloom from June through August, providing vibrant color throughout the summer.
- Each poppy flower is supported by a slender stem, rising above the foliage to a height of 40 cm, making them perfect for creating levels of interest in borders or edge plantings.
- The foliage of Papaver nudicaule 'Matador' is an attractive blend of green and grey hues, forming a lush backdrop for the vivid flowers.
- This species has a clump-forming growth habit, which allows it to fill spaces naturally and create a full, robust appearance in group plantings.
Tips
- For the best display of color, plant your Papaver nudicaule 'Matador' in a location that receives full sun.
- Although this poppy is not an evergreen, its foliage and flowers will thrive with an average water regimen, ensuring the soil is well-drained but remains consistently moist.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage a longer flowering period and to keep your garden looking tidy.
- When planting in groups, space the poppies about 20-30 cm apart to allow for their clumping growth and to ensure each plant has enough room to reach its full potential.