Organic 'Turkish' Poppy

Organic 'Turkish' poppy (Papaver pilosum), offered by Les Jardins de l'Écoumène

Native to the mountainous regions of Turkey, the 'Turkey' poppy is a robust and spectacular perennial, recognizable by its large, bright orange, slightly ruffled flowers, set against densely hairy, greyish-green foliage. Resilient and long-lasting , it forms a low clump in its first year before reaching its full potential from the second season onward, offering a luminous display of high ecological value , much appreciated by bees and other pollinators. Undemanding, it thrives in poor, dry, or stony soils, prefers full sun , and integrates naturally into wild gardens, rockeries, and low-maintenance flowerbeds.

Spread: 30 to 40 cm
Plant height: 40 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet: Approximately 200 seeds
Flowering: From the second year
Companion plants: Yarrow, lavender, ornamental grasses
Plant enemies: None known

Farming method

The 'Turkey' poppy is sown directly in place in spring or autumn, as it does not tolerate transplanting well. It prefers very well-drained soil and a sunny location; once established, it is very drought-tolerant and requires little watering, with patience rewarded by abundant flowering in subsequent years.

Harvesting and uses

Cultivated primarily for its ornamental value and ecological benefits , the 'Turkey' poppy provides sustenance for numerous pollinators and adds natural structure to the garden. The decorative seed pods can be left after flowering to prolong visual appeal or encourage light self-seeding.