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Photo by Gachepi

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Meconopsis betonicifolia

Also Known As

Blue Himalayan Poppy
Blue Poppy

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 3'-6'
W: 8"-20"

planting zones

6a-9b

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Meconopsis betonicifolia plant details

Meconopsis betonicifolia is a slow-growing broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In spring blue flowers emerge. Grows well with mostly shade and even moisture water. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Meconopsis betonicifolia

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: papaveraceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 8 IN - 20 IN - wide, 3 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: blue blooms in spring
Uses: woodland garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Meconopsis betonicifolia

USDA Zones: 6a - 9b
Sun exposure: mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture

Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This species is the legendary Himalayan blue poppy, originally called Meconopsis baileyi then M. betonicifolia. The flowers are from three to five inches across in pale to deep sky blue. Prefers peaty, well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist in summer and bright but indirect light. Prefers regions with cool summers and resents heat and humidity. Often listed as either zone 3 or 5 hardy from various sources. However, my mother-in-law, Ramona, who lived in zone 1b Saskatchewan grew and bloomed blue poppies by mulching them with a deep pile of fallen leaves each autumn. Make sure to use this method in zones 1-4.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

Blooms: spring, true blue, yellow stamen, keep roots cool but the top of the plant needs full sun. Zone 7-9 2'-3', China, part shade-sun, moist, well drained

By: Keeping it Green Nursery

At the top of every plant lovers wish list is the "Himalayan Blue Poppy." Though rare in the trade, the good news is that here by the temperate and foggy bay it is easy to grow! 3" flowers of heart-melting blue are borne on 2' plants in spring or summer. This photo is taken in my backyard in Richmond where it got zero special treatment. Just a.m. sun or bright shade. Rich loamy soil, and keep on the moist side. Remove flowers the first year (they say) to ensure a longer lived plant. Zone 16 & 17 only. Short-lived Perennial.