Papaver 'Princess of Orange'

Papaver orientale 'Princess of Orange': Crowned in Tangerine

Radiant and lively, Papaver 'Princess of Orange' brings an electric burst of colour to the late spring garden with its vivid tangerine-orange petals and deep black centres. The oversized, satiny blooms hover atop tall, sturdy stems, creating a bold vertical presence in full sun borders. As one of the most vibrant Oriental poppies, this cultivar energizes the garden palette just as summer perennials begin to emerge, drawing in pollinators and admiration alike.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75–90 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: Bright orange with black centres
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Coarse, hairy, blue-green; goes dormant in summer
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to slightly alkaline soil

Uses and Benefits: A bold focal point in sunny borders and cottage-style gardens, 'Princess of Orange' offers a dynamic early-season display that transitions easily into summer. Its dramatic blooms stand out against fresh spring greens and pastel companions, while its foliage naturally fades away to make room for other performers. Ideal for pollinator-friendly plantings and landscapes that benefit from strong early colour.

Companion Plants: Pair with the golden blooms of Coreopsis 'Early Sunrise', the moody vertical spikes of Salvia 'Caradonna', and the fine, flowing texture of Sporobolus heterolepsis for a warm, prairie-inspired planting that offers extended interest and seasonal harmony.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with sharp drainage—Oriental poppies prefer sandy or gravelly soils and resent winter wet. Water during active growth, then reduce as the plant goes dormant in summer. Leave seedpods for interest or deadhead to tidy. Avoid disturbing established plants. Divide only when absolutely necessary, in fall or early spring.

History: 'Princess of Orange' is a vibrant cultivar of Papaver orientale, cherished for its saturated colour and upright form. It has long been favoured in European and North American gardens for its eye-catching presence and dependable performance in sunny, well-drained settings.

Final Thoughts: Bursting with bold energy and vintage charm, Papaver 'Princess of Orange' reigns over the spring border with confidence—flamboyant, fleeting, and absolutely unforgettable.