Re: some updates to the Events web page
Chas wrote:
> The Martins sent me seeds of a red poppy from Island of Rhodes.
>which they believe is Papaver rhoeas?
> Our botanical authority at our botanical garden is concerned that
>it may not be a mediterranean native but may have been introduced there.
> Can anyone supply me with information that will establish to his
>satisfaction that it is indeed a Mediterranean native? I would appreciate
>it very much. It sounds like a very pretty plant!
Well it may be native to Rhodes and other Greek Islands, but I would
not consider Papaver rhoeas to be an exclusively mediterranean plant.
It is widely dispersed throughout much of Europe and a very common
'weed' of arable pasture. Before the advent of extreme mono culture
which wiped out a great many of our native wild flowers, wheat and
barley fields would be turned scarlet by this species during summer.
However, this poppy is still a very common plant throughout and is one
of the first 'weeds' to appear when soil is turned over.
I agree it is a glorious annual and there have been many cultivated
forms - few of which can match the simple beauty of the true species.
David Poole
TORQUAY UK
