The poppy, or Papaver rhoeas, is a herbaceous plant in the Papaveraceae family, widely found in fields, wasteland and along roadsides. It generally grows to a height of 20 to 80 cm and is easily recognisable by its large, solitary flowers (5 to 10 cm in diameter), which are bright red and often marked with a black spot at the base of the petals. Its thin, upright and slightly hairy stem exudes a white latex when broken. The finely cut leaves, sometimes arranged in a rosette at the base, are also covered with fine hairs, while the fruits are spherical capsules that release numerous tiny seeds.
The poppy flowers mainly from May to July, sometimes until September, colouring the landscape with scarlet spots. An annual plant, it likes poor soil, grows on disturbed ground and can become invasive when conditions are right. Traditionally, the poppy has been used for its sedative and calming properties, particularly the dried petals in infusions to combat insomnia or coughs. In cooking, its young leaves and seeds are also used in various dishes. The poppy has a strong symbolic significance, evoking the fleeting beauty of meadows and memories of traditional countryside life.
Source: Wikipedia
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