Papaver umbonatum is a species of flowering plant in the family Papaveraceae. This species is also known more commonly as bossed or Semitic poppy. It is often misidentified as Papaver rhoeas (corn poppy, common in Europe), since they are very similar in form and appearance. Its native range includes the rocky plains of Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian Territories.

In the Levant

Papaver umbonatum grows throughout the Levant, from Syria and Jordan to Israel and the Mediterranean coast. Papaver umbonatum has a hairy and bristly stem, and an unpleasant smell.[citation needed] The flower is pollinated by beetles from the Glaphyridae family, which are unique among insects in their ability to detect red color.[citation needed] Contrary to popular belief, the poppy is not a protected plant in Israel.

Gallery

  • Papaver umbonatum growing on a sidewalk on a street in the city Nesher, Israel
  • Papaver in Beer Sheva trail
  • Papaver subpiriforme (synonym P. umbonatum) natural appearance on a meadow or field near Ein Hashofet, Israel
  • Fruits and seeds of Papaver umbonatum