Iceland Poppy ‘Champagne Bubbles White’ (Papaver nudicaule) 20 seeds

Iceland Poppy ‘Champagne Bubbles White’ (Papaver nudicaule) – dense foliage and strong stems supporting large, cup-shaped flowers. The blooms are pure white with a bright yellow centre and have a light citrus-like fragrance.

Technically, Iceland poppies are considered perennial and can withstand cold winter conditions. However, since they are sensitive to heat, flower growers usually cultivate them as hardy annuals or biennials.

Seeds are best started indoors, bottom-watered in seed trays, and barely covered with soil. The optimal germination temperature is 21 ºC. Sow seeds about 8 weeks before transplanting into the garden. Although seedlings appear tiny and delicate, it is important not to leave them in trays for more than 10 weeks. Once transplanted, they develop rapid new growth and usually come into full flower around 6 weeks later. Seeds may also be sown in late summer and transplanted in early autumn so that plants establish and bloom the following spring. If autumn sowing is not possible, start seeds no later than mid-February to ensure flowering before the summer heat.

The best stage to harvest Iceland poppies is when the buds are just beginning to crack open and show the first hint of colour – the “cracking bud stage”. The main reason for failure with Iceland poppies is insufficient care during seed sowing. This crop cannot be direct-sown; seeds must be started in trays and later transplanted into well-prepared soil at the right time.

Iceland poppies have a surprisingly long vase life – up to one week when harvested at the proper stage and treated correctly. Immediately after harvest, briefly sear the stem ends with an open flame or boiling water for 7–10 seconds and then place in water with flower food to extend freshness.