Meconopsis Integrifolia

The lampshade poppy is one of the great yellow Meconopsis, forming a substantial rosette of long, softly hairy leaves before sending up sturdy stems of large, silky, sulphur-yellow bowls. The flowers hang or spread like glowing lampshades around a dense central cluster of stamens and can make a remarkable display in cool early summer light. Native to high mountains of Tibet and south-western China, Meconopsis integrifolia demands moisture, humus and protection from heat. It is often monocarpic, flowering magnificently once before completing its life through seed.