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Poppy - Prickly 'Busy Bee'
Seed Packet

Poppy - Prickly 'Busy Bee'

Argemone platyceras
This native of Texas and New Mexico was described as a 'favorite annual' way back in 1840. The gray-green stems and leaves complement large pure white flowers 4-5" across. The blooms look beautiful with California poppies, both appreciating the same well-drained sandy soils. Bees of all kinds love it.
SKU #S937
$3.25
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
135
Lifecycle
Annual
Annual Hardiness
Hardy Annual
Mature Size
2-3' h x 1.5' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Spring to summer
Color
Pure white
Features
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Bees
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and press in.
Sprout Time:
7-20 days
Seed To Bloom:
12-14 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Not recommended.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in earliest spring, or fall in mild winter areas.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Dry gravelly soils in rock gardens and borders are the perfect sites for drought-tolerant prickly poppy. The large open flowers with central rings of gold stamens attract native bees, while the jagged foliage with spines effectively repels deer for a successful, low-maintenance native garden. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to keep your poppy blooming. However, leaving a few flowers to self-sow helps ensure a new season of bloom. With their ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions, prickly poppies can be a stunning addition to dry gardens.
Final Spacing:
8-12"
Water Requirements:
Low Water Use
Watering Details:
Once established, water only during especially dry spells.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral—if soil is acidic, add some lime before planting.
Fertilizer:
No need to fertilize.
Diseases & Pests:
No major problems.