A number of annual and perennial species of the poppy (papaveraceae) family are grown in Tasmania, either as commercial crops, as ornamentals or may appear as weeds in a variety of situations.
The only species of poppy, which is grown extensively and commercially throughout Tasmania for alkaloid and culinary seed production, is the oil poppy (Papaver Somniferum).
In addition, the perennial or Persian Poppy (Papaver Bracteatum) has been grown periodically over a number of years for alkaloid research purposes by commercial pharmaceutical companies and the Department of Primary Industries.
The culture or possession of both Papaver Somniferum (and this includes the sub-species Setigerum) and Papaver Bracteatum is strictly prohibited.
The only exceptions are those growers, processing companies or research institutions that are licensed to do so by the Tasmanian Department of Health and Human Services and the Poppy Advisory and Control Board.
This restriction also applies to the old-fashioned brightly coloured and seemingly multi-petalled ornamental or Peony Poppy, which is only another form of Papaver Somniferum.
Papaver Somniferum (Oil Poppy)
Papaver Somniferum or Oil Poppy grows to a height of up to 1.5 metres. It has 4 petals which are pale pink with a dark basal blotch. The capsules are spherical with a flat cap and are 20-40 mm in diameter.
Papaver Bracteatum (Persian Poppy)
Papaver Bracteatum or Persion Poppy grows to a height of up to 1.5 metres. It has 6 petals which are blood red in colour with a dark basal blotch. The capsules are 40mm long with a concave cap and persistent bracts.
Papaver Rhoeas (Field Poppy)
Papaver Rhoeas or Field Poppy grows to a height of up to 600mm. It has 4 petals which are red and may have a dark basal blotch. The capsules are elongated and are 5-10mm in diameter and 15-20mm in length.
Papaver Pseudo-orientale (Pseudo-oriental Poppy)
Papaver Pseudo-orientale or Pseudo-oriental Poppy grows to a height of 400-600mm. It has 4-6 petals which are deep orange "scarlet" with a part blotch. The capsules can be up to 25mm long with a flat disc.
Papaver Orientale (Oriental Poppy)
Papaver Orientale or Oriental Poppy grows to a height of 300-700mm. It has 4 petals which are pale orange in colour with no blotch. The capsules are 20mm long with no bracts.
Papaver Hybridum (Rough Poppy)
Papaver Hybridum or Rough Poppy grows to a height of up to 500mm. It has 4 petals which are crimson in colour with a dark basal blotch. The capsules are 15mm long, oval in shape and bristly.
Papaver Dubium (Long-head Poppy)
Papaver Dubium or Long-head Poppy grows to a height of up to 600mm. It has 4 petals which are red in colour and overlapping with no blotch. The capsules are elongated, 15-20mm long, and 5-10mm in diameter.
Papaver Argemone (Pale Poppy)
Papaver Argemone or Pale Poppy grows to a height of up to 500mm. It has 4 petals which are dark crimson in colour with a dark basal blotch. The capsules are 10-15mm long, elongated and bristly.
