BLACK PEONY POPPY SEEDS

Papaver somniferum var. paeoniflorum

These beautiful antique flowers are extraordinary and easy to grow. Fully double ruffled petals appear nearly black in the garden. Makes a dramatic cut flower, though they rarely hold longer than a few days in a vase. Persistent seed pods are attractive for several weeks. Seeds may be used for baking. An incredibly useful and beautiful plant.

Sow seeds directly onto loose garden soil in full sun in very early spring. Water daily until germination occurs. Once established, poppies require no intervention, and indeed prefer to flower in dry soils. Grows to just 2' in height.

For cut flowers, snip when flowers are just barely beginning to open and seal cut ends of stems with a flame or in boiling water.

Arrange immediately. Flowers will perk up and fully unfurl on the second day. Petals will begin to drop on the third day. Truly ephemeral, but magical.

Packet contains at least 500 seeds.