Papaver Moondance

Papaver ‘Moondance’ is a gorgeous perennial poppy that brings a softer, more romantic feel to the border. It produces large, silky, tissue-thin blooms in creamy white to pale lemon shades, often with a gentle sheen that seems to catch the light—hence the name. Floating above a neat clump of foliage on tall stems, the flowers have that classic poppy magic: they’re elegant, eye-catching, and always a talking point when they open.

It’s perfect for sunny borders, cottage-garden planting, and mixing through grasses and perennials where it can pop up like little moons among the greenery. It’s also brilliant for pollinators when in flower, and once established it’s a hardy, long-lived perennial that will reward you year after year.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable. Container-grown plants can be planted most of the year, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Papaver prefers an open spot with good airflow and is ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens and naturalistic planting. Avoid heavy, wet soils, especially in winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the top of the rootball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 40–60 cm (16–24 inches) apart to allow room to clump up and to help prevent mildew.
• Soil Prep: Little enrichment is needed—improve drainage if required with horticultural grit. Avoid over-feeding, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. Once established, Papaver is fairly drought tolerant, but will appreciate watering during prolonged dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, or leave a few seed heads for structure and interest.
• After flowering, foliage may die back—this is normal. You can cut back tired leaves and the plant will often freshen up.
• In spring, remove old growth to make way for new shoots.

Top Tip:
Papaver ‘Moondance’ looks stunning with Alliums, Salvias, Nepeta and ornamental grasses. For a natural, meadowy feel, plant in small groups and let the pale blooms drift through stronger colours.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

Late spring to summer (typically May – July, with repeat flushes if deadheaded)

Height:
24–36" (60–90cm)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial