Papaver Somniferum
(Danish Flag)
approx. 5,000 seeds
Somniferum is the variety of poppy whose seeds are most often used in culinary activities and baking. The seed oil is also used for a variety of purposes such as making paints, varnishes and salad dressings. Also like the peony, it has been a common feature of poetry and art dating well into ancient times. It is cultivated in many parts of the world as a crop and an ornamental flower. Unlike peonies, though, the flowers are not frilly. With plants stretching up to four feet, the foliage is bluish green and resembles lettuce. They will usually hybridize with other poppies if precautions are not taken to prevent cross-pollination. Displaying bright red paetals with a white cross in the center, these flowers are appropriately named, "Danish Flag."
