Papaver somniferum ‘Lilac Pompom’ | Breadseed Poppy | Feathered Poppy

Papaver somniferum ‘Lilac Pompom’ is a breathtaking laciniatum-type poppy valued for its large, deeply fringed, fully double blooms in an enchanting soft lilac shade. The unique pompom-like flowers sit elegantly above blue-grey foliage, creating a striking, romantic focal point in borders, cottage gardens and wildflower-inspired plantings.

Easy to grow and best sown directly where they will bloom, this annual poppy offers high impact with minimal effort. After flowering, plants develop beautiful sculptural seed pods — highly prized for drying, floristry and natural décor.

Plant Information

• Botanical name: Papaver somniferum var. laciniatum ‘Lilac Pompom’
• Common names: Breadseed Poppy, Feathered Poppy, Peony Poppy
• Type: Hardy annual
• Days to maturity: 80–90 days
• Pinching: Not necessary
• Height: 70–90 cm
• Position: Full sun
• Flowering time: June – September
• Packet size: 1 g
• Approx. seeds per packet: ~3,000

Why Grow ‘Lilac Pompom’

• Spectacular, deeply fringed pompom blooms in soft lilac
• Exceptional garden presence — bold, tall, architectural
• Ornamental seed pods perfect for drying and floral design
• Easy direct-sow annual with fast growth
• Self-seeds lightly for future seasons
• Ideal for cottage gardens, borders, and meadow-style plantings

How to Sow

Direct Sow (recommended):

• Sow early spring (March–May) or late summer–autumn (August–September)
• Scatter seeds thinly onto raked soil; cover very lightly
• Maintain moisture until germination
• Thin seedlings to 25–30 cm apart

Indoor Sowing (possible but not ideal):

• Use deep pots to protect taproots
• Sow in darkness at ~20°C
• Transplant only when very small

Note: Breadseed poppies dislike transplanting. Direct sowing gives best results.

Growing Tips

• Requires well-drained soil — excellent drainage prevents root rot
• Water deeply but infrequently
• Slugs love young seedlings — protect early growth
• Remove spent blooms to extend flowering or leave them for pods
• Once flowering finishes, pods can be harvested or left to self-seed

Cut Flowers & Pods

• Cut when blooms are half-open
• Sear stem ends 7–10 seconds for vase conditioning
• Vase life: 2–3 days (pods last indefinitely)
• Pods dry beautifully for long-term décor

Perfect For

• Cottage & informal gardens
• Bold summer borders
• Dried floral work
• Naturalistic & meadow plantings
• Statement garden moments