Venus Poppy Seeds

Venus Poppy (Papaver paeoniflorum) is a striking peony-flowered annual admired for its large, fully double coral-pink to salmon-rose blooms. The flowers are packed with finely ruffled, feathered petals that create a soft, pompom-like appearance, giving each bloom remarkable texture and fullness. Rising above blue-green foliage on strong stems, Venus brings warm color and dramatic form to cottage gardens, annual borders, and cutting gardens.

Garden Uses

Venus Poppy is excellent for cottage gardens, cutting gardens, annual borders, heirloom flower beds, pollinator plantings, and romantic mixed borders. Its coral-pink blooms pair beautifully with purple salvia, blue larkspur, lavender, white alyssum, nigella, foxgloves, baby's breath, and ornamental grasses.

The rounded seed pods that follow bloom are useful for dried arrangements and add ornamental interest after flowering has finished.

Growing Information

Sow seeds directly outdoors where plants are to grow, as poppies dislike transplanting. Scatter seed over prepared soil and press gently into the surface. Cover only very lightly, since light helps germination. Best growth occurs in full sun and well-drained soil during cool spring weather.

Plants generally grow 30 to 40 inches tall. Once established, they are easy to maintain and tolerate moderate drought. Water during extended dry periods, but avoid soggy soil or heavy fertilization. Allow seed pods to mature if dried pods or natural reseeding are desired.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Papaver paeoniflorum
• Common Name: Venus Poppy
• Plant Type: Annual
• Height: 30–40 inches
• Spread: 12–18 inches
• Flower Color: Coral-pink, salmon-rose, warm pink
• Flower Form: Fully double, ruffled, pompom-like
• Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
• Sun: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Low to moderate
• Best Use: Cottage gardens, borders, cutting gardens, dried pods
• Pollinator Friendly: Moderate
• Self-Sows: Often in favorable conditions