Papaver 'Orientale' Beauty Livermere 2ltr

Papaver orientale ‘Beauty of Livermere’ is a real early-summer showstopper, producing huge, silky, scarlet-red flowers with a striking black centre that practically glow in the border. Each bloom is beautifully crinkled as it opens (like tissue paper), then unfurls into a bold, dramatic plate of colour that bees absolutely love. It’s a brilliant plant for adding instant impact to sunny borders and cottage-garden planting, and it looks especially good threaded through late spring and early summer favourites like Alliums, Nepeta and early grasses.

A useful fact with Oriental poppies: after flowering, the foliage often dies back and goes dormant for a while—this is totally normal. Planting them alongside later-emerging perennials (like Salvias, daylilies or hardy geraniums) helps fill the gap and keeps the border looking full.

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. Oriental poppies prefer soil that drains freely and dislike sitting wet in winter. Ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens and wildlife-friendly planting.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the top of the rootball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart to allow room for the clump to develop.
• Soil Prep: Little enrichment is needed—just ensure good drainage. On heavy soils, mix in a little horticultural grit.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes, then water only during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, especially in winter.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead spent blooms to keep things tidy (or leave seedheads if you enjoy the structure).
• After flowering, foliage may die back and go dormant — this is normal. Mark the plant so you don’t disturb it.
• Cut back old foliage when it has completely died down and new growth starts to appear.

Top Tip:
Plant Papaver ‘Beauty of Livermere’ alongside later-season perennials such as Salvias, hardy geraniums or daylilies to fill the space when the poppy naturally rests after flowering.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May – June

Height:
30–36" (75–90cm)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial