Papaver Aglaya (Oriental Poppy)

Papaver 'Aglaya', a stunning Oriental Poppy, delights with its soft salmon-pink blooms, subtly infused with a warm, rosy undertone. These large, ruffled flowers feature a dramatic black centre, creating a striking contrast that makes this poppy a standout in any border. Each bloom is surrounded by layers of silky, crepe-like petals, giving it a graceful yet bold appearance.

Blooming from late spring to early summer, 'Aglaya' heralds the start of the growing season with its showy display. At a height of 80-90 cm, its tall, sturdy stems rise above a rosette of silvery-green, deeply divided foliage that stays attractive even after the flowers fade. This variety is perfect for planting in borders, where it creates a stunning focal point, or alongside softer perennials to balance its bold blooms.

Unique Details:
Unlike many Oriental Poppies, 'Aglaya' is noted for its slightly longer bloom period, providing weeks of spectacular flowers in the early season. Its foliage is particularly refined, with a softer texture and a less sprawling habit than other poppies, making it well-suited for smaller spaces or more formal planting schemes.

Another lesser-known characteristic is its resilience to light shade. While most Oriental Poppies prefer full sun, 'Aglaya' can thrive in areas with dappled light, making it more versatile for a variety of garden settings. Additionally, it attracts bees and other pollinators, adding ecological value to its ornamental appeal.

After flowering, the seed heads remain decorative, offering an architectural element that lasts through summer. These can even be harvested for dried arrangements, adding a touch of elegance indoors.

We ship our Papaver 'Aglaya' as bare root plants in spring, ensuring they arrive ready to settle into your garden. Plant them in well-draining soil and give them plenty of room to shine. With minimal care, this perennial will return year after year, bringing timeless beauty to your garden.

Learn how to grow Papaver

• Scientific Name: Papaver orientale 'Aglaya'
• Common Name: Oriental Poppy 'Aglaya'
• Height: Typically grows to 60–90 cm tall
• Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant
• Flower Color: Salmon-pink with bold black basal blotches
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
• Flower Size: Large, showy blooms
• Garden Use: Ideal for creating dramatic focal points in borders or garden beds
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Maintenance: Low maintenance; cut back after flowering for tidiness and potential reblooming foliage
• Supplied as bare root plants
• Easy to grow
• Supplied As: Bare Roots
• Dispatch: Spring (March/April)
• We ship from: London