Meconopsis Zhongdianensis

Meconopsis zhongdianensis is a recently described high-mountain poppy from the Zhongdian region of north-western Yunnan. Compact rosettes of bristly leaves produce solitary or few-stemmed flowers in cool blue to violet-purple, centred by bright stamens and held close enough for their detail to be appreciated. Its native subalpine and subarctic habitat subjects it to snow, intense light and brief cool summers. Rarely encountered in gardens, it is a true collector's species for a shaded alpine bed, where constant moisture, humus-rich drainage and protection from heat are essential.