Crimson Red Oriental Poppy

Papaver orientale ‘Crimson Red’ is a clumping, hardy perennial poppy with large, crepe-paper-like crimson flowers and dark centers. Its upright stems rise above finely divided gray-green foliage, bringing a strong vertical accent to late spring plantings. ## Flowers and placement Little Prince of Oregon lists mature dimensions of about 3 feet tall and 20 inches wide, with red flowers and a clumping habit. American Meadows describes vivid red petals around a black center and identifies the flowers as a draw for early-season pollinators. Plant in borders, beds, or containers, where the tall stems can rise above lower groundcover. The assigned cultivar name is retained. ## Growing conditions The Little Prince product profile lists USDA hardiness zones 2–8 and recommends full sun and deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Oriental poppies prefer cool conditions and a cold winter period. North Carolina State Extension notes that the foliage naturally dies back after flowering and returns as a basal rosette in fall. ## Maintenance Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soil. Plant companion perennials nearby to fill the space as the poppy foliage dies back after bloom. The flowers are reported as deer and rabbit resistant. Sources: [Little Prince of Oregon](https://littleprinceplants.com/our-plants/perennials/papaver-orientale-crimson-red-oriental-poppy-4-pot/), [American Meadows](https://www.americanmeadows.com/products/perennial-oriental-poppy-crimson-red), and [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/papaver-orientale/).