Papaver orientale 'King Kong'

Papaver 'King Kong' produces large, deep red flowers on top of dense, robust, dark green foliage. Oriental poppies are dramatic additions to the perennial border. Grow in organically rich, medium moisture soil and full sun. They go semi-dormant after flowering as summer heat increases usually flushing new foliage as summer cools into fall. Plant a low, mounding perennial in front of your poppy patch to mask the bare spot. Note that the main shipping season of May and June for potted oriental poppies corresponds with the time these poppies will naturally go dormant. The stress of shipping often brings on this dormancy a little early. Remember: it's the roots that count. New foliage will flush later in the season. Deer and rabbit resistant.

The deep red blossoms of King Kong are a classic example the simple beauty of Oriental Poppies. Sturdy 3' stems support the lovely flowers, which are later followed by ornamental seed pods. Plants will go dormant as the summer progresses, so consider planting some tall airy annuals nearby to fill the space for late season interest.