Poppy

Poppy is a type of flowering plant in the family Papaveraceae. Poppies are herbaceous plants, often grown for their colorful flowers. One species of poppy, Papaver somniferum, produces opium which is a narcotic that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Description

Poppies have a variety of morphological characteristics. They are annual, biennial, or perennial plants. The leaves are alternate and often lobed or pinnatifid. The flowers have two sepals that fall off as the bud opens, and four (or up to six) petals in red, pink, orange, yellow, or lilac. There are many stamens in several whorls around a compound pistil, which results from the fusion of carpels. The fruit is a capsule with many, tiny seeds.

Uses

Poppies have a long history of use by humans. The opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, is grown for opium, morphine, and other narcotics. It has also been used for food and oil. Other species, like Papaver rhoeas and Papaver argemone, are important agricultural weeds, and may be harmful to livestock.

Cultivation

Poppies are cultivated for their flowers, and for opium in some parts of the world. They prefer light, calcareous soil and a cool climate, and are often grown as ornamental plants.

Symbolism

Poppies have been used as a symbol of sleep, peace, and death. In Greek and Roman myths, poppies were used as offerings to the dead. The red poppy has become a symbol of remembrance of soldiers who have died in various wars.

See also

• Papaveraceae
• Opium
• Morphine
• Papaver somniferum
• Papaver rhoeas
• Papaver argemone

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