Celandine Poppy Plant

The celandine poppy plant (Stylophorum diphyllum) has showy yellow and orange flowers that sparkle in woodland groves and along shaded paths from March through April. Celandine poppies flourish in the home garden as much as in the natural woodland environment. Growing them is relatively easy, provided the right conditions are present, and once established, they form small colonies that provide reliable, cheerful color in the spring and early summer garden.

The Celandine Poppy Plant Thrives in Moist, Organic, Well-Drained Soils

Like most woodland natives, celandine poppies evolved in shaded conditions with rich organic soils, so replicating this in the home garden environment is the best way to make them thrive. They do well when planted under deciduous trees and receive dappled shade throughout the day. They also appreciate moist soils, so be sure to give them an extra drink of water on warm spring and summer days. In autumn, don't be too meticulous about raking up every last leaf — as they decompose, these leaves will add to the organic matter in the soil. Remember that these plants will go dormant if soil conditions are too dry.

The Celandine Poppy Plant is Easily Cultivated From Seed

Fresh celandine poppy seeds germinate easily and quickly under the right conditions. After preparing and amending the planting site with organic compost, scatter the seeds over the soil and cover them lightly. Keep the soil evenly moist and do not allow it to dry out, and thin the seedlings to about 12 inches apart when they've reached a height of four inches. It's best to plant the seeds in late summer or autumn, but remember that although they will germinate the following spring, they won't bloom until their second season.

The Celandine Poppy Plant Plays Well With Other Species

Although celandine poppies self-seed pretty easily, they aren't as invasive as poppy species that have been introduced to American gardens from Europe. They don't crowd out other plants, making them a good choice for inclusion in a mixed-shade border. At an average mature height of 24 inches, these are good for the border's middle and back, but celandine poppies are also versatile enough to be used in mass plantings or even as specimen plants in small gardens. They're equally at home in more formal landscape designs and woodland paths. Deadheading the flowers after they've passed their prime helps prolong the blooming season, but be sure to leave a few intact if you want the plants to self-seed.