Water Poppy

Water Poppy is a delightful aquatic perennial that brings a touch of exotic charm to UK ponds. It features glossy, oval leaves that float on the water's surface, resembling small water lily pads. From summer into early autumn, it produces charming, poppy-like, pale yellow flowers with three petals and a brownish-purple centre, held just above the water. While often treated as a half-hardy annual in colder parts of the UK, it can overwinter in milder areas or if tubers are protected. It thrives in still, shallow water in full sun.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Rich, muddy loam.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.