Artwork by Acorn Designs
Oriental Poppy Lokta Card
$5.00 – $8.00
- Our images are set in a frame on this beautiful, handmade paper from the Nepalese Lokta shrub.
- This tree-free paper is both environmentally friendly and sustainably harvested.
- Each card comes with an envelope and is packaged individually in 100% biodegradable cellophane sleeve.
- Cards are blank on the inside for your message.
- Back of card has educational story, shown below in description.
Back of Card DESCRIPTION
The undulating stems of these poppies can reach three to four feet in height, and the enormous silky flowers, resembling crepe paper, can measure six to ten inches across. Flower colors range from white, blush, pink and salmon, to brilliant orange and red. A cluster of inky black stamens forms the dramatic center of each flower, and some varieties also sport a black patch at the base of each petal. The cut flowers look splendid for several days, and can be used in a traditional mixed arrangement or alone to create a graceful art nouveau look.
In addition to its spectacular flowers, the Oriental Poppy boasts dramatic foliage, interesting spiky buds, and distinctive seed pods, all of which add drama to the garden. The pods may be left to dry for ornament and for birds to feed upon.
The poppy has a long history in human cultivation. In ancient Egypt, opium was favored as a sleep aid, and pharaohs were sometimes buried with opium artifacts. Unlike Oriental Poppies, Opium Poppies (Papaver somniferum) are annuals, and the cultivation of them is illegal.
artwork and text by Betsy Karasik
