Himalayan Poppy
Meconopsis napaulensis

Family: Papaveraceae

What it is like

Meconopsis napaulensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 2

Where it is found

Open slopes and grazed ground, 3000 - 4500 metres.

E. Asia - Himalayas to China, Nepal and Szechwan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

An edible oil is extracted from the seed.

Oil: Oil

Medicine

Rating: 1

The root is used as a narcotic.

Narcotic: Relieves pain, induces drowsiness and gives a sense of well-being.

Other

Rating:

Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.

How it is grown

Grows best in a woodland soil in partial shade. The soil should be lime-free, moist, well-drained and moderately rich. Dislikes full sun and windy positions. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. A very ornamental plant. Monocarpic, the plants living for a number of years before flowering but then dying once they flower. A fine plant for growing in open woodland. Plants are subject to 'crown rot' when they are growing in damp conditions.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in late summer. Spring sown seed is slower to germinate. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

M. wallichii.