Rough poppy (Papaver hybridum)
The rarest of the poppies, with small red petals that carry a black spot at the base. Its seed capsule is globe-shaped and covered in stiff yellow bristles.
In this exceptional genus, dwarf bear-poppy (Arctomecon humilis) is the rarest — and perhaps most remarkable — species, due to its profusion of delicate white flowers and unique habitat. In many ways, the dwarf bear-poppy is a poster child for rare plant conservation.
Poppies that contain alkaloids are a prohibited plant in Tasmania because they are toxic - it is an offence to grow or possess them without a licence. Poppies are found everywhere in Tasmania, including as ornamental plants, weeds and cut flowers.
The opiates found in alkaloid poppies are potentially dangerous if misused, so Victorian poppy production is occurring in a highly regulated environment. Poppies grown in Victoria can be extremely toxic due to the quantities of thebaine that they may contain.
At high doses, thebaine and morphine intoxication can cause death. Illegal possession of poppy plant parts of substances derived from poppies is a criminal offence and attracts heavy penalties.
Most people think there is only one poppy to be worn for remembrance, but, in reality, there are four Remembrance Poppies which can be worn: Red, White, Purple and Black.
Once considered a myth, blue-poppies (Meconopsis 'Lingholm') are alive and thriving at Longwood Gardens. These spectacular flowers—which are native to the high elevations of the Himalayan Mountains—reside in our Conservatory where temperatures are kept cool to make the plants comfortable during their flowering season.
Purple Poppy Species
Blooms are typically double and petals may be fringed. Breadseed poppies have flowers ranging from white to purple and deep plum, according to the Utah State University Extension. Purple blooms are also produced by corn poppy varieties.
Its flowers range in color from white to purple and any shade of red or pink in between. Poppies produce seeds prolifically.
Once a year in November, British people (royals included) honor fallen troops by wearing a crimson poppy. A century-old tradition, the flower has now come to symbolize hope and gratitude.
Flowers can be smaller than a thimble or larger than a dinner plate - plus they come in colors from translucent white through ivory, yellow, golden, orange, and red, even ranging into shades of blue and purple. Botanists divide poppies into almost 800 species grouped into 42 genera.
Icelandic poppy, Papaver nudicaule
The flowers last for many weeks, in shades that include cream, yellow, salmon, orange, pink and red. They make excellent cut flowers and often self seed, coming back year after year.
Such a rich true blue flower is a rare garden treasure. Blue Poppies have a reputation of being difficult to grow, but these plants can be grown successfully if you follow a few basic guidelines.
State Flower
California Golden Poppy. Eschscholzia californica. The California golden poppy is bright orange with blue-green, fern-like leaves and grows in bushy clumps up to 2 feet tall and wide. Their flower petals can reach 2 inches long and 3 inches wide. Golden poppies grow throughout California.
Papaver somniferum (Paeoniiflorum Group) 'Black Beauty'
This almost black, fully double Poppy is absolutely stunning. Grow en masse or as a small clump planting to make a truly dazzling display. Hardy annual.
The Himalayan blue poppy, Meconopsis grandis, has sky blue-colored petals, although the anthocyanidin nucleus of the petal pigment is cyanidin.
White poppies were originally made in 1933 by the Co-operative Women's Guild. Today, true to its roots, the new design is made by a workers' co-operative in the UK. The new white poppy design is better for the environment.
The Purple Poppy is a symbol of remembrance for the countless animals who served alongside Australian soldiers in times of war. From horses and mules to dogs and pigeons, these animals played a vital role in supporting the war effort.
Other colours of poppy have their own meanings: - Pink poppies symbolise compassion and platonic love. - Orange poppies stand for health and regeneration. - Yellow poppies represent optimism and the ability to look on the bright side as well as positive memories of people who have died.
The "Animal" Poppy
To commemorate all the animal deeds and sacrifices in war, the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) has issued a purple poppy, which can be worn alongside the traditional red one.
Named after explorer Charles Sturt and South Australia's state emblem, the native wildflower has become an enduring symbol of Australia. "This little flower has got its roots deeply into Australian culture," says florist Hazel Davies.
In Australia and New Zealand, tall poppy syndrome is a term that refers to successful people being criticised. This occurs when their peers believe they are too successful, or are bragging about their success. Intense scrutiny and criticism of such a person is termed as "Cutting down the tall poppy".
Wearing a poppy (on the left breast or lapel) is more common in Australia on and around Remembrance Day, 11 November.