Papaver is a genus of 70 to 100 species of frost-tolerant annuals, biennials, and perennials native to temperate and cold regions of Eurasia, Africa and North America. It is the type genus of the poppy family, Papaveraceae.

This ancient form of cultivated poppy produces the most unusual seed pod of all poppies. The main pod is surrounded by masses of smaller pods giving the impression of a mother hen and chicks. These poppies are primarily grown for their curious seed pods which are extremely decorative and are in much demand for dried flower arrangements. Hens & Chicks poppy develop large flower heads that stay curled downward for several days longer than other varieties. The “chicks” are developing during this waiting period and will soon force the caps over the flower to crack as the stem straightens and the flowers open. Plants grow to about 60-90 cm high and have thick stocks and broad lettuce like leaves which make it appear short and squat compared to most other poppy varieties. The large flowers are single-petaled and usually a deep red to a light purple. Technically an annual, these will readily self-seed giving the appearance of a perennial. If you want a beautiful and unusual flower to grace your garden, then try the easily grown Hen & Chicks poppy.