Poppy 'Black Peony' Seeds

Peony poppies are generally grown as annuals or short-lived perennials depending on climate. It is an annual, completing its whole life in one season, so sow again the following year. Harvest: Cut flowers when buds are just opening for longest vase life. Flowering runs June to August.

Sow seeds in well-drained soil in a sunny spot during spring or autumn, lightly cover, and keep moist until germination. Sow the seeds directly on top of compact, moist soil during March to May or August to September, ensuring they receive light to trigger germination. Keep the soil warm but avoid covering the seeds, as light is essential for sprouting.

Seedlings usually appear in 7–14 days. Sow from March to May, and August to September.

Yes. Peony poppies have large, ruffled blooms on long stems, making them excellent cut flowers. Cut stems early in the morning as buds are just starting to open for the longest vase life. Watering: moderate; keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Yes. Peony poppies perform best in full sun, where plants grow sturdier and produce more flowers. They prefer well-drained soil and cope well with dry conditions once established. Grow it in full sun, well-drained soil, thin seedlings to 15cm apart.

Yes — this is a straightforward packet to give, and what makes it work as a gift is mostly timing. Sowing runs March to May, and August to September, so a packet given inside that window can go straight in, and one given outside it keeps perfectly well until the season comes round.

There are approximately 500 seeds in the packet, so there is plenty to share. On effort it looks after itself, which matters if you are giving it to someone new to growing. It suits beds, borders and cut flower gardens, so it works for a small space as well as a garden.