Species snow poppy
a white flower with an orange center,a  red-brown stem and green leaves

snow poppy

Eomecon chionantha

The snow poppy (Eomecon chionantha) is a truly amazing plant species. The stunning white, cup-shaped blooms appear in late winter and early spring, bringing an unexpected splash of color to the landscape during the cold, dismal months. The perennial is quite hardy and easy to grow, preferring cooler temperatures, and can often be spotted in gardens, along roadsides and in woodlands. Not only is it beautiful, but its striking blooms attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, making it an ideal addition to any wildlife-friendly garden. Furthermore, with its evergreen foliage all year round, the snow poppy provides year-round interest and can be used to create a unique background to show off the plant's beautiful white flowers.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White with yellow center stamens Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Snow poppy should be watered moderately every 5-7 days, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment. A good way to test the soil for moisture is to stick your finger about 2-3 inches into the soil - if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. When watering, it's best to drench the soil and then let it drain for a few minutes before discarding the excess water. Do not waterlog the soil, as this can cause root rot. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, it may need to be watered only once every 2-3 weeks.

sunlight

Snow poppies grow best in full sun exposure, meaning that they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They thrive in the cooler temperatures of early spring and late fall, but can also do well in the hotter summer months. The ideal time for maximum sunlight exposure for snow poppies is between 10am and 4pm, when the sun is at its highest and brightest. For best results, provide them with as many hours of sunlight as the climate allows.

pruning

Snow poppy (Eomecon chionantha) is a hardy plant that requires minimal pruning to look its best. Pruning should be done in early spring before the new growth appears. Trim off any dead branches and look for any signs of disease or pests. Care should be taken to make sure the cuts are clean and not jagged or uneven. For shaping, look for any straggly or leggy shoots and give the plant a light pruning. This can be done on an as needed basis throughout the season, but a light once over in the early spring is recommended. The goal is to maintain an attractive shape without limiting blooming capabilities. Snow poppy is fairly drought tolerant, which means it won’t need frequent watering. However, an application of well-balanced fertilizer in the spring will help promote healthy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Snow poppy typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map