Oriental poppy

Oriental poppies are among the most flamboyant of the early summer flowers, with enormous, often frilly double blooms in loud colours. 'Patty's Plum' is definitely a must-have variety with its handsome blackcurrant-purple flowers. Although they are hugely spectacular, the foliage becomes untidy after flowering unless cut back a few weeks later. This does not harm the plants, but it does leave a large gap in the border unless vigorous, but late, neighbouring plants can spread to occupy the space.