Shirley Poppy
Drama Queen Poppy is a stunning opium poppy cultivar that commands attention with its theatrical blooms from spring through summer. Growing 24 to 36 inches tall, this frost-tolerant variety thrives across zones 2 through 11 and reaches full flower glory in just 98 days from seed. Its dramatic presence in the garden, combined with reliable deer resistance and pollinator appeal, makes it a showstopper for gardeners who crave bold, unapologetic color in their beds.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
36in H x 10in W
Annual
High
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Drama Queen Poppy earns its name with extravagant blooms that refuse to be ignored. From a single seed sown on the soil surface, this cultivar produces substantial plants in under 100 days, flowering reliably throughout the warmer months. Its ability to thrive in full sun with moderate water and its exceptional cold hardiness from zone 2 make it a resilient choice for gardens across the continent, while its appeal to pollinators and resistance to deer browsing add practical value beyond pure ornamental drama.
Drama Queen Poppy is grown primarily for its ornamental blooms, which enliven borders, cutting gardens, and mixed flower displays throughout spring and summer.
Sow seeds in pots 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Surface sow the seed and cover lightly with vermiculite or use a humidity dome, maintaining temperatures of 65 to 70°F until germination occurs (expect sprouting in 5 to 20 days). Once seedlings emerge, lower the temperature to 50 to 60°F. Handle transplants with extreme care, as poppies are sensitive to root disturbance and resent being moved.
Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors. Move them to their garden location after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them 1 inch apart. Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil adjusted to pH 6.0 to 7.5.
Direct sowing is recommended and works particularly well with this variety. Sow seeds 4 weeks before your last spring frost, or in late autumn if you garden in zones 8 and warmer. Mix seed with fine sand and scatter thinly over prepared soil. Surface sow the seeds and press them gently into contact with the soil; they require light to germinate.
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