Meconopsis
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Meconopsis are an intriguing group of flowering plants with two distinct ranges. A single species, Meconopsis cambrica, or the Welsh poppy, is indigenous in the fringes of Western Europe. The other 40 or so (depending on classification) Meconopsis species are to be found in and around the Himalaya regions. There is much debate as to what constitutes a particular species within the Himalayan types as many readily hybridise with each other and produce viable seed. It is very likely that individually-named species are in fact a single species but with an under-appreciated variable form. It is worth stating here that the Meconopsis-group of plants highlights the weaknesses of the classification system developed by Carolus Linnaeus, who grouped species according to shared physical characteristics. It may be better to use genomic DNA analysis to better ascertain how many species there actually are.
A large proportion of species are monocarpic and as such are notoriously difficult to maintain in cultivation.
[edit] Cultivation
Himalayan varieties have the reputation for being difficult to grow from seed, but when germinating new plants, using fresh seeds will help. On the other hand, the Welsh poppy is sometimes considered a weed, albeit a handsome one, due to its vigorous self-seeding. It comes as a surprise to many that poppies are available in shades of blue. These plants are also available in a variety of strong colours, including blue, red, orange, purple, white and yellow depending on species and cultivar.
[edit] Sources and references
- Meconopsis.org specialized website - includes further links
