Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Papaver alpinum
Alpine Poppy
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Height
- 8–10 inches
- Width
- 6–8 inches
- Flower color
- White, yellow, orange, red, or salmon
- Foliage color
- Gray-green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to mid-summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; remove faded flowers to encourage rebloom; may self-seed in favorable conditions
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4–6
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees; deer-resistant
About this plant
Papaver alpinum is a charming perennial that thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and high-altitude environments. It is known for its white, orange or yellow flowers, which appear in late spring to early summer. The blooms are delicate, with four rounded petals, and are set atop slender, wiry stems that rise above the mound of foliage. This plant does best in full sun, where its flowers can catch the light and stand out against its green, fern-like leaves.
Once established, Papaver alpinum is fairly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for alpine or rock gardens. The plant's compact form and attractive foliage also make it an excellent choice for edging or filling in small garden spaces. Although the flowers are short-lived, they bring an element of brightness and freshness to any garden setting.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rock Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage · Sedums · Peonies · Coneflowers
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.
