Poppy, Orient Harlem

Harlem Oriental Poppy delivers one of the most theatrical moments in the late spring border, with enormous, tissue-paper petals in deep, luxurious shades of red that practically glow in the sunlight. The blooms can span four to six inches across, making an impact that no other spring perennial can quite match for sheer drama. Plants grow 24 to 36 inches tall and fill in beautifully as part of a mixed perennial border, where their bold upright form stands out as a natural focal point. Like all Oriental poppies, Harlem goes dormant in summer—a thoughtful planting of later-emerging companions like ornamental grasses or dahlias nearby helps fill the gap gracefully. It settles in best in a sunny spot with good drainage and returns reliably each year, spreading into a gradually expanding clump that deer and rabbits reliably ignore. Plant it where you want a truly unforgettable spring display.