Poppy ‘Black Swan’, also known as Papaver somniferum (Laciniatum Group) ‘Black Swan’, is an annual plant. This means that it completes its life cycle, from seed germination to flower production and seed formation, in one year. Unlike perennial plants that live for multiple years, poppy ‘Black Swan’ will not come back year after year.
The plant is known for its striking and beautiful dark red flowers. These flowers are large, reaching up to 5 inches in diameter. What makes poppy ‘Black Swan’ even more special is that it has fully double flowers, meaning that each flower has multiple layers of petals, giving it a luxurious and full appearance.
Poppy ‘Black Swan’ grows in an upright manner, adding height and structure to your garden or landscape. Its tall stems and large flowers make it a standout feature in any planting bed or mixed border. The dark red color of the flowers adds a bold and dramatic element to your garden, creating a focal point that is hard to miss.
As an annual plant, poppy ‘Black Swan’ needs to be grown from seed each year. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in early spring or started indoors and transplanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed. It is important to note that poppy ‘Black Swan’ is a cold-tolerant plant and can withstand some frost, but it is best to protect young seedlings from extreme cold temperatures.
Once the seeds are sown and the plants start to grow, it is important to provide them with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Poppy ‘Black Swan’ prefers full sun, meaning it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. It also needs well-draining soil and regular watering to keep the plants hydrated, especially during hot and dry periods.
One of the unique features of poppy ‘Black Swan’ is its ability to produce opium. Opium is a milky substance that is extracted from the plant’s seed pods. It contains alkaloids, including morphine and codeine, which have medicinal properties. However, it is important to note that extracting opium from poppy plants is illegal in many countries, and it is crucial to check local laws and regulations before attempting any extraction.
In terms of maintenance, poppy ‘Black Swan’ is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can help prolong the blooming period and encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Additionally, providing support, such as stakes or a trellis, can prevent the tall stems from bending or breaking under the weight of the flowers.
Poppy ‘Black Swan’ is an annual plant with stunning dark red, fully double flowers. It adds height and drama to any garden or landscape design. While it is not a perennial, it can be grown from seed each year to enjoy its beautiful blooms. It requires full sun, well-draining soil, and regular watering. While it has the potential to produce opium, it is important to be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations. With proper care and maintenance, poppy ‘Black Swan’ can be a striking addition to your garden.
