ORANGE HORNED POPPY

Glaucium flavum var. aurantiacum

Striking silvery blue foliage is dramatically lobed and pleated and contrasts beautifully with the big bright orange flowers. Crazy long needlelike seed pods can grow to nearly 1'. Prefers full sun and dry soil. Deerproof. Truly peculiar and an excellent choice for xeriscaping.

Sometimes incorrectly listed as a biennial because it will rarely bloom in the first year if not sown early. Best to sow in situ in very early spring. Can also be started indoors, ideally at least 12 weeks before the last spring frost: sow seeds onto surface of moist soil, mist carefully and cover with plastic. Refrigerate for 2-4 weeks before returning to room temperature in bright light. Typically germinates in a week or so, but can sometimes take longer so be patient. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual cells or containers in bright light at warm room temperature. Harden off and transplant outdoors into well-drained soil in full sun in early spring.

These plants will self-sow generously where they are happy. Hardy to at least zone 6, and will sometimes overwinter in a sheltered location with very sharply drained soil in zone 5. Considered invasive in some coastal locations of North America. All parts of this plant are extremely toxic. Please research carefully and plant mindfully.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.