Corn Poppy and Shirley Poppy

Scientific Name: Papaver rhoeas

USDA Hardiness Zones: Zones 3 to 9 (annual)

Approximate number of seeds per kilogram (pound) : 7,040,000 (3,200,000)

Sun: full sun to partial shade

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination, do not overwater

Soil: surface sow, using loose, well-drained soil

Temperature: 16 to 21 degrees Celsius (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 2 pounds per acre for a meadow

Germination Time: 10 to 30 days

The Red Corn Poppy or Flanders Poppy is an annual native to Europe, but it has become naturalized in the United States.  These poppies are best sown in the autumn in warmer climates and in the spring in cooler climates.  These poppies make an excellent addition to meadows and wildflower mixtures.  Corn Poppies typically bloom from March to July depending on the climate.