Oriental Poppy ‘Picotee’ (Papaver orientale ‘Picotee’) is a striking late-spring perennial known for its large, silky white blooms edged with a contrasting deep orange to red picotee border. The flowers are exceptionally showy and appear atop sturdy, hairy stems above a mound of deeply cut, coarse green foliage. After blooming, the plant often goes somewhat dormant in summer, so it is best planted among later-emerging perennials that can fill in the space. This variety adds dramatic colour and texture to borders and cottage-style gardens and performs well in cold climates.
- Size: Height: 60–90 cm (24–36 in.). Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in.)
- Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness: Zone 3
- Light: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates average to lean soils
- Water: Moderate; avoid overly wet conditions, especially in winter
- Maintenance: Remove spent flowers; allow foliage to yellow naturally after blooming; plant where summer dieback will not leave gaps
- Note: Does not transplant well once established—best planted carefully in a permanent location