Meconopsis betonicifolia-Himalayan Poppy

Propagating Himalayan Poppy, which is not a true poppy takes patience, but the rewards are stunning. First collect the seed either from other plants or purchased. Lay them on a wet paper towel, rung out and store in the fridge for 4 weeks. The dormancy needs to be broken. Then remove from the fridge and let the seeds sit, covered with the paper towel and never allow it to dry out, until the seeds germinate and are about 6" tall then transplant outside into a rich moist humus soil in partial shade. It will not flower the first year and may not the second, the plant is not long lived but its purple flower will leave you gasping. It blooms in early summer and reaches a height of 20"-28" but could reach as high as 6'. The plant is a native of China and does best in colder zones, down to Zone 3 and are rabbit resistant.