Poppy Peony Double Cream is a cultivated variety of Papaver somniferum. This particular strain has been selectively bred for its showy, double, peony-like blooms in creamy, pale shades. The original species originates from the Mediterranean region but has been cultivated for thousands of years across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for ornamental, culinary, and medicinal purposes. The ornamental varieties like Peony Double Cream are bred for flower form and colour, not for medicinal use, and do not contain usable levels of medicinal alkaloids.

The seeds of Papaver somniferum are edible and widely used in baking and cooking. They are the same seeds used in poppy seed rolls, cakes, and bread. These seeds are safe to eat as they contain no medicinal properties. However, no other part of the plant should be consumed, as the unripe seed pods and sap are toxic and potentially dangerous if ingested.

HOW IT GROWS
Poppy Peony Double Cream is a hardy annual that prefers cool to mild weather, making it well-suited to many regions of Australia. It grows best in full sun with well-drained soil and tolerates poor soil conditions as long as drainage is adequate. Plants grow to about 60–90 cm in height and produce large, frilly, double blooms that resemble peonies. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, depending on when seeds are sown.

GROWING FROM SEED
Poppies are best sown directly into the garden as they dislike being transplanted. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. In most of Australia, sow from late autumn to early spring, depending on your local climate. Sprinkle the seeds thinly over the soil surface and press them in gently. Do not cover with soil as they require light to germinate. Water gently with a fine spray to keep the soil moist.

Seeds will usually germinate in 10–14 days. Once seedlings appear, thin them to allow about 20–30 cm between plants. Avoid disturbing the roots. Plants require minimal care—just water during dry spells and avoid overfeeding. Once flowering is finished, allow seed heads to mature and dry on the plant if you’d like to collect seeds for the next season.