Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Oriental poppies are grown for their radiant displays of huge, satin-like flowers in late spring and early summer. These days they come in a huge range of colours too, and it is delighted to offer Papaver 'Picotee', which is set apart from the rest. In general, Papaver 'Picotee' refers to a flower whose edge is a different colour to the base colour, and this is certainly the case here. The unique flowers of this bicolour poppy are bowl-shaped, with creased petals that are predominantly creamy white. However, they possess an attractive, wide, orange-to-red margin. They surround a dark centre that really pops. There is nothing else like it.
The large flowers of Papaver orientale 'Picotee' start appearing in May, and continue throughout July, held on sturdy stems above finely cut hairy leaves. This cultivar is also marginally taller than most other poppies, at around 70-80cm in height. For best results, grow Papaver 'Picotee' in well-drained soil, in a position in full sun. And finally, remember that most poppies are known for attracting bees; the flowers are nectar- and pollen-rich.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Papaver orientale 'Picotee'
- Flower colour
- Cream, orange, red
- Established height
- 50-70cm
- Established spread
- 20-30cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 10 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Stony
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Wildlife gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Papaver 'Picotee' reviews
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choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.