SIR CEDRIC MORRIS POPPY SEED

Papaver rhoeas

Painter Sir Cedric Morris was particular about poppies. His paintings are testimony to an obvious preference for subtle, muted tones, which is what you'll find in this exquisite mix of P. rhoeas seeds, selected by the artist himself.

Annual poppies are best sown outdoors, in situ, in very early spring. Height of these poppies will vary, but most will grow to around 24 inches. Poppies typically require full sun and excellent drainage, and this species is no exception.

This mix is frequently marketed as “Mother of Pearl", which does little justice to the artist responsible for its composition.

Poppies make lovely cut flowers, but require special treatment to hold in the vase: cut P. rhoeas when buds are just beginning to open. Open flowers will not hold. Seal cut ends of stem with a flame (using a cute Zippo lighter, preferably). Place cut flowers in a bucket of cool water, out of wind, heat and light, for several hours, ideally overnight. In the morning they will be ready to arrange. If you need to cut the stems yet again, plunge the cut ends into just-boiled water immediately afterward to seal the stems. Expect their delicate beauty to last no longer than a few days. Paint with haste.

Packet contains a minimum of 1000 seeds.