Papaver o. ‘Queen Alexander’ (30)ct Flat

Description

Product Description

Papaver orientale ‘Queen Alexander’ (30)ct FlatCommon name: Oriental Poppy.

Bright, salmon-pink blooms with smooth, rounded petals are borne on wiry, pubescent stems from late spring thru early summer. The petals have a crepe-like appearance and a satiny texture. Each flower can measure 4-5″ across.

In the center of a poppy’s flower rests a very large, velvety-black seed capsule surrounded by prominent, dark purple stamens. Altogether, these flowers absolutely steal the show when they are in bloom. After the bloom cycle is completed however, these perennials will go dormant, so plan on planting other plants nearby to fill in the gaps.

Height: 30.0 InchesSpread: 18.0-24.0 InchesHardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7Flower Color: Peach shades, Pink shadesFoliage Color: Green shadesFull Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)Average Water NeedsAverage to Fertile Soil QualityBloomtime: Late Spring – Early SummerAttracts HummingbirdsDeer and Rabbit ResistantSeasonal Interest: Dried Seed HeadsGrowth Rate: Medium

Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Specimen

‘Queen Alexandra’ is a beautiful and eye-catching Oriental poppy cultivar that is known for its large, salmon-pink flowers and elegant presence in the garden. It is a classic choice for adding a touch of romance and color to borders and beds. Here is a closer look at its key features:

Appearance:

• Salmon-Pink Flowers: ‘Queen Alexandra’ produces large, cup-shaped flowers in a bright salmon-pink color. The petals have a crepe-papery texture and a satiny sheen, adding to their allure. The flowers typically reach 4-5 inches in diameter, creating a beautiful display in the garden.
• Dark Center: The center of each flower features a prominent, velvety-black seed capsule surrounded by dark purple stamens, providing a beautiful contrast against the salmon-pink petals.
• Gray-Green Foliage: The flowers emerge from a mound of finely cut, hairy, gray-green foliage that adds texture to the garden.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day).
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It is adaptable to various soil types, but good drainage is essential.
• Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3-7. It is best suited for cooler climates and may struggle in areas with hot and humid summers.

Care:

• Low Maintenance: ‘Queen Alexandra’ is a relatively low-maintenance plant.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
• Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooms and prevent self-seeding.
• Foliage Dieback: The foliage tends to die back after flowering, leaving a gap in the garden. You can interplant with other perennials to fill the space.

Uses:

• Borders: Adds a soft and romantic touch of color to borders and beds.
• Cottage Gardens: Its informal and delicate appearance makes it a good fit for cottage gardens.
• Specimen Plant: Its large, eye-catching flowers make it an excellent specimen plant.
• Cut Flowers: The flowers are suitable for cutting and using in arrangements, but they do not last long.

Additional Information:

• Short Bloom Time: Oriental poppies have a relatively short bloom time, typically flowering for a few weeks in late spring to early summer.
• Self-Sowing: ‘Queen Alexandra’ can self-sow, so you may find new seedlings popping up in the garden.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Deer and rabbits tend to avoid Oriental poppies.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies.

If you are looking for a beautiful and romantic perennial with large, salmon-pink flowers, Papaver orientale ‘Queen Alexandra’ is an excellent choice. It is a classic and reliable addition to any sunny garden, adding a touch of soft color and elegance.

Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.

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