The common poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is an annual wildflower that produces bright red flowers. The seeds of the common poppy can lie dormant for up to 80 years, germinating when the soil is disturbed. This led to it being developed as a symbol of remembrance after World War I, when bouquets of poppies grew on battlefields.
The common poppy typically blooms from late spring to early summer. Although the flowers are often bright red, hybridization and selection have resulted in several cultivars with flowers in shades of yellow, orange, pink, and white.
These poppies are low maintenance when planted in their hardiness zones, and are excellent for naturalizing. They also grow well in beds, allotments, borders, and pollinator gardens.
Please note that all parts of the poppy plant are toxic to dogs and cats.