Papaver ‘Shirley Doubles’ combines the delicacy of a wild poppy with a joyful mix of colours. A cultivated form of the classic field poppy (Papaver rhoeas), it’s airy, light, and easy to grow — just scatter the seeds where you want them and let them get on with it. These annuals bloom freely and gently self-sow for a repeat performance next year. A drift swaying in the summer breeze is a delight for the eyes — and a favourite with pollinators.
🌸 Flowering: June to September
📏 Height: 60-75cm
🌿Annual
SOW: from March (in milder spots) or April to mid-June, scatter seed straight onto prepared ground where you want them to flower. Mixing it with a little sand helps spread it more evenly—then just rake in lightly. You can also try an August or September sowing for earlier flowers the next year.
GROW: deadhead to keep them blooming, or leave the seed pods to ripen and they’ll self-sow for next time. If any come up in colours you don’t fancy—or revert—just pull them out. Deadhead to keep them blooming, or leave the seed pods to ripen and they’ll self-sow for next time. If any come up in colours you don’t fancy—or revert—just pull them out.
ENJOY: cut while still in bud for longer vase life — sear the stem ends with a match to help them last. Whether in the garden or in a jug indoors, Shirley Doubles are all about lightness, colour, and gentle beauty.
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