We're offering you a 2 or 4 Poppy Watermelon Plants for £4.99, saving you up to 62% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £12.98 (correct as of 21.04.2026).

Papaver orientale 'Watermelon' – Captivating Colour for Every Garden

Add a burst of rich pink to your garden with the Poppy 'Watermelon', a standout perennial from the Papaver orientale family. Known for its large, bowl-shaped blooms and unique crepe-textured petals edged with bold black markings, this variety delivers an eye-catching display from late spring through early summer.

• Botanical Name: Papaver orientale 'Watermelon'
• Flowering Period: Late May to July
• Mature Height & Spread: Typically grows to 60–90cm tall and 30–45cm wide
• Hardiness: Fully hardy in UK gardens (RHS H7/USDA zone 3-7)

Why Grow Poppy 'Watermelon'?

• Low Effort, High Impact: This poppy is easy to establish and needs little maintenance once settled.
• Drought Tolerant: Once mature, it copes well with dry periods.
• Wildlife Friendly: Attracts bees and pollinators with its open, pollen-rich flowers.

Growing Guide & Care Tips

• Planting Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged ground.
• Sowing & Planting: Plant between February and April for best results. Space plants about 30–40cm apart.
• Soil Preferences: Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils (pH 6.5–7.5).
• Caring for Your Poppies: Water regularly during establishment, then only during extended dry spells. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Cut back foliage after flowering for tidy regrowth next season.
• No Need to Prune: Simply remove faded stems; no hard pruning required.

Design Ideas & Companion Plants

• Poppy 'Watermelon''s bold colours pair beautifully with blue delphiniums, silver-leaved artemisia, or ornamental grasses.
• Create striking borders or cottage garden schemes by mixing with other sun-loving perennials such as lupins and irises.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Poppy 'Watermelon'?
  The ideal planting window is late winter to early spring (February–April) when the soil is workable.
• How tall do these poppies grow?
  Papaver orientale 'Watermelon' typically reaches 60–90cm in height at maturity.
• What type of soil does it prefer?
  This poppy thrives in neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soil in a sunny position.