Black Peony Poppy Seeds | Papaver somniferum var. paeoniflorum | Deep Burgundy Double Poppy for Goth & Cottage Gardens

Dramatic and richly romantic, Black Peony Poppy produces large, fully double blooms packed with intricately ruffled petals in shades of deep plum, burgundy-black, and near obsidian. The extravagant peony-like flowers can reach 3-5 inches across, creating a striking focal point in gothic gardens, cottage borders, and dramatic cut-flower plantings.

Silvery blue-green foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the exceptionally dark flowers. After blooming, distinctive rounded seed pods add architectural interest and can be left in the garden or used in dried arrangements. Black Peony is a hardy annual that can readily self-sow when mature pods are allowed to remain. Plants typically reach approximately 3-4 feet tall.

A natural choice for our Goth Garden Collection, Black Peony pairs beautifully with other dark flowers, silvery foliage, and richly colored cottage-garden varieties.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Sun: Full sun

Plant height: 3-4 ft

Spacing: 8-10 in

Germination: Approximately 14-21 days

Ideal germination temperature: 60-65°F

Seed depth: Surface sow

Life cycle: Hardy annual

Days to maturity: Approximately 90-100 days

Sowing: Direct sow where the plants will grow, as poppies have sensitive roots and generally dislike transplanting. Scatter the tiny seeds thinly over loosened, weed-free soil. Do not bury them deeply. Press them gently onto the soil surface to ensure good contact while leaving them exposed to light.

Keep the seedbed evenly moist, but not waterlogged, until seedlings become established. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to approximately 8-10 inches apart to provide adequate room for mature plants and larger blooms.

When to plant: Sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In warmer climates, including Zones 7-10, Black Peony can also be direct sown in fall, allowing the plants to establish during cooler weather.

Once established, plants require relatively little care. Grow in loose, well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Allow mature seed pods to remain if you would like the poppies to naturally reseed for the following season.