The Common Field Poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is one of the UK’s most iconic and recognisable wildflowers. Known for its vivid scarlet petals and delicate black centre, this annual species adds instant colour to landscapes and is strongly associated with remembrance and wild arable field margins. It thrives in disturbed or low-fertility soils and is often seen in cornfield and restoration mixes.

This native species is a fast grower and blooms throughout summer, providing vital pollen for bees and other insects. While short-lived, it readily self-seeds and performs especially well in sunny, open sites with free-draining soils.

Features & Benefits
Bold red flowers symbolic of remembrance
Fast-growing annual with high visual impact
Supports bees and pollinators with abundant pollen
Ideal for arable margins, road verges, and urban spaces
Self-seeds to return year after year in the right conditions

Latin Name:
Papaver rhoeas

Flowering Time:
June – September

Flowering Height:
30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle:
Annual

Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
2kg per acre (5kg per hectare)

Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a sunny, open site with disturbed or poor, well-drained soil.
Clear the area of existing vegetation and lightly cultivate the surface to create a fine tilth.
Broadcast the seed evenly and roll or tread lightly into the soil—do not bury deeply.
Avoid using fertiliser or rich compost, as this can suppress flowering.
Poppies thrive on minimal maintenance and will reseed naturally if allowed to set seed.

About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Latin Name | Papaver rhoeas

Flowering Time | June – September

Flowering Height | 30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle | Annual

Sowing Rate | 2 kg per acre (5 kg per hectare)

Sowing Period | Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

Preferred Conditions | Poor, disturbed soils; full sun

Pollinator Friendly | Yes

Minimum Order Quantity | 10g

Ideal For | Arable land, memorial planting, roadsides, urban greening