Tangerine Gem Poppy bloom on a white background.
Tangerine Poppy in white vase with small tangerines at base.
Close-up view of Tangerine Poppy.
Tangerine Poppy blooms on light background.
Tangerine Gem Poppy bloom on a white background.
Tangerine Poppy in white vase with small tangerines at base.
Close-up view of Tangerine Poppy.
Tangerine Poppy blooms on light background.

Poppy Seeds,
Tangerine Gem

4.33 ReviewsSKU: #FL315
Price
Regular price $3.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.50
Save $-3.50
/

Min. 100 seeds

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Papaver rupifragum). A native of Morocco, Papaver rupifragum brings saturated tangerine tones to the most rocky and arid landscapes. Plants form small mounds of blue foliage, just 8 to 12 inches wide, that send up wiry stems two feet tall topped with double-petaled, satin blooms in the most striking translucent orange hue. This pollinator-attracting perennial blooms in the first year and reseeds readily. In 1890, Sir William Jackson Hooker described finding P. rupifragum growing in dry, rocky places of southern Morocco at an elevation of 6,000 - 7,000 feet. Indeed this drought-tolerant plant is perfect for meadows, xeriscaping, rocky gardens, and sunny, dry locations!

Growing Tips:The Tangerine Gem poppy is drought-tolerant and fit for dry, rocky soils. While it behaves like a perennial, it can also be grown as an annual in colder climates​. Best grown in full sun and moderately rich, well-drained soil.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Papaver rupifragum
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 5–9
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
14–21
Days to Maturity
60–90
Planting Depth
Surface sow
Plant Spacing
8–10 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–65°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

For best results, sow Tangerine Gem poppy seeds in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or late fall. In milder climates, fall sowing allows seedlings to overwinter and bloom in spring. The seeds require cool temperatures to germinate and can tolerate light frost​.

How to Sow and Plant

Surface-sow the seeds by scattering them lightly on the soil and gently pressing them in, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout, usually in 14-21 days. Thin the seedlings to 8-10 inches apart for healthy growth​.

How to Grow

Tangerine Gem poppies are low-maintenance once established. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and grow well in dry conditions. These poppies reach a height of about 18-24 inches and produce blooms from late spring to early summer. Deadheading the flowers can extend the blooming period.

How to Save Seeds

  • Mostly self-pollinating; however, small flies and honeybees may cross-pollinate closely planted varieties.
  • Often self-sows, but you can also harvest seeds when capsules turn brown.
  • Save seed over winter in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

Do Tangerine Gem poppies self-seed?

Yes, if left to mature, they will self-seed​. In USDA zones 5-9 they will usually perennialize as well and return year after year.

Are Tangerine Gem poppies deer-resistant?

Yes, they are deer-resistant, making them a great choice for areas where deer are prevalent​.

When do Tangerine Gem poppies bloom?

These poppies typically bloom from late spring to early summer​.

Customer reviews

4.3 / 5 3 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Pastel orange blooms: Soft sherbet-orange flowers, some double and some single.

  • Long bloom window: Blooms from May through September; fall-sown bloom by April.

  • Growing tips: Surface sow in place; sprouting is spotty and plants reseed freely.

More to grow!
See all Poppy Seeds