Common Poppy, Corn Poppy, Field Poppy, Flanders Poppy
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Ranunculales, Family: Papaveraceae, Genus: Papaver, Species: Papaver rhoeas · Papaveraceae (Poppy family) · Simple but deeply pinnatifid; the overall plant is a deciduous herbaceous annual
Species
Papaver rhoeas
Leaf Type
Simple but deeply pinnatifid; the overall plant is a deciduous herbaceous annual
Family
Papaveraceae (Poppy family)
Shape
Note: The image shows a single red petal and stem, not a leaf. Typical leaves for this species are oblong-lanceolate and deeply lobed/pinnatifid.
Size
Leaves typically range from 2 to 6 inches (5-15 cm) in length. The petal shown is approximately 1-2 inches wide.
Margin
Deeply toothed, serrated, and lobed (pinnatifid)
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem, often forming a basal rosette in early growth stages
Rarity
Very Common; widespread as both a wildflower and an agricultural weed
Color & Pattern
Leaves are medium to dark green with visible hairs. The petal shown is vivid scarlet red with a characteristic dark/black blotch at the base.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation on leaves; the petal shows delicate radiating veins from the base
Texture & Surface
Bristly and hairy (hispid) on both stems and leaves; petals are delicate, papery, and slightly crinkled
Description
An upright annual herb growing up to 3 feet tall. It features hairy stems, deeply lobed leaves, and large, four-petaled flowers that are traditionally bright red. The plant produces a porous capsule containing thousands of tiny black seeds.
Key Features
Hairy/bristly stems, scarlet red petals with a black basal spot, and a distinct hairless, rounded seed capsule
Habitat
Disturbed soils, agricultural fields (especially cereal crops), roadsides, and meadows; prefers well-drained soil and full sun
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia; widely naturalized in North America and other temperate regions worldwide
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be a pressed single petal and stem. The color is well-preserved but is slightly faded compared to a fresh living specimen; overall health grade: Good (as a botanical press).
Interesting Facts
The 'Flanders Poppy' is a global symbol of remembrance for soldiers who died in war, specifically WWI, as they were the first plants to grow in the churned earth of battlefields.
Medicinal & Uses
Used ornamentally in gardens. The seeds (maw seeds) are used in baking. Historically used in folk medicine as a mild sedative or for coughs, though professional medical use is limited.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other insects; its seeds can remain dormant in the soil for decades waiting for disturbance.
Similar Species
Papaver dubium (Long-headed Poppy) which has a more elongated seed capsule; Papaver orientale which is a larger perennial poppy.
Foraging Tips
Look for them in late spring to early summer in sunny, disturbed sites. Collect seeds once the capsule is dry and the small pores at the top have opened.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic; all parts of the plant except the ripe seeds contain alkaloids (like rhoeadine) that can cause digestive upset or lethargy if ingested in large quantities by humans or livestock.