One isMeconopsis grandis,and the other isMeconopsis baileyi (also known asMeconopsis betonicifolia).
This clump-forming perennial has strikingly unusual, delicate, blue, bowl-shaped flowers with yellow centers.
These plants can’t survive if they are exposed to too much intense sunlight.
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They prefer a partial shade position with bright but indirect light.
Soil
Blue poppies have very particular soil requirements.
To thrive, they need a moist but well-drained key in that is rich inorganic matter.
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They are also surprisingly sensitive to pH levels.
Asoil testis recommended before planting as they prefer a neutral to slightly acidic throw in.
Too much alkalinity results in the blooms turning purple rather than blue, and it can impact on growth.
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In the winter, their preference is to be kept dry, so no supplemental watering is usually required.
Temperate regions that don’t have overly hot summers are best for these plants.
Types of Blue Poppies
Beyond blue, there are also purple, pink, and whiteMeconopsis baileyivarieties.
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Meconopsis baileyiAlba: This variety has white petals and a gold center that grows 212 to 3 feet tall.
That way, your blue poppies will be able to focus on establishing strong roots and developing their foliage.
This will encourage this relatively short-lived plant to survive longer.
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Cutting them down to the ground in late fall is also a common practice.
For this reason, propagation is often best done from seeds.
Sowing fresh seeds is recommended.
Blue poppies have large, sky-blue blooms that are up to 5 inches across.
Each flower blooms in succession and lasts around 10 days.
These flowers are not fragrant, but their nectar attracts pollinators.
Common Problems
Though blue poppies are difficult to grow they are mostly disease-free.
Mold can affect plants due to overcrowding, humidity, and overly wet conditions.
Look for yellow spots that form on the top of leaves with fuzzy, white growth on the undersides.
Remove the infected plants.
A copper fungicide can be used as a preventative.
They are often planted under tree canopies as they thrive in moist and filtered light environments.
The rich nectar of the Himalayan blue poppy is also perfect if you want toattract pollinatorsto your garden.
Bees and butterflies are drawn to it.
Even the most experienced gardeners can find blue poppies a challenge when it comes to germination and growing successfully.
The seedheads ofMeconopsispoppies distinguish them fromtrue poppies.
Instead of being pepperpot-shaped, they are elongated and slender.
