There are many different types of poppy not all of them 'true' poppies from the genus Papaver. All of them can be sown or planted now.
Shirley/Flanders Poppy (Papaver rhoeas) This small red single poppy with a dark blotch at the base of each petal, that flowers across Europe, especially in the disturbed soils of the WW 1 battlefields. Worn as a symbol of remembrance. A very easy annual to grow in the garden, Shirley Poppies have delicate, beautiful, tissue paper flowers that sway in even the lightest breeze. 4cm spectacular flowers in shades of pink, white, red and rose. With enough room, plants can get quite large - up to 1m (3') in height and width. Easily reseeds for naturalised meadow areas.
Iceland Poppy (Papaver nudicaule) Iceland poppies, with their delicate cup-shaped flowers on tall stems have increased in popularity as modern breeding brings us ever better varieties. They add colour and joy to the winter garden. They need an open sunny position with well-prepared rich soil and protection from frost and strong winds. Pinch out early buds until plants have formed good clumps. Remove spent blooms to promote further flowering. Plant poppy seedlings a hand span apart and keep them well watered. Varieties: 'Matilda' : large silky flowers on strong stems; red, orange, yellow, apricot. 'Oranges and Lemons': a bright range in orange, yellow, lemon and tangerine. Grow 50cm tall, plant 20cm apart, flower 12 weeks after planting. 'Encore': Very bright mixture of oranges, creams, yellows, pinks and reds. 'Artist's Glory' Crinkled silky petals in gold, lemon, apricot and salmon. Seed available (Yates, Mr Fothergill).
Californian Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) Readily gown from seed, this robust plant has blue grey fern-like foliage and single 'buttercup' type flower in range of colours from pale yellow to bright red. It self seeds year after year and needs little feeding.
Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum) This is a prohibited import because of its toxic qualities, so seeds are not available for purchase.
Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale) This herbaceous perennial needs a cool temperate climate to grow and flower well. This large poppy has 'crepe papery' petals in glorious colours; white, pink, lilac, red, orange. Flower stems will reach 80cm. Leaves are bristle-like. Available from Tesselaar 1300 428 527, http://www.tesselaar.net.au
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