Family: Papaveraceae
Author: (Tolm.) Nordh.
Bibliography: Bergens Mus. Årbog (Årbok), Naturvidensk. Rekke 2: 45 (1931)
Year: 1931
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Papaver
Vegetable: False
Observations: Subarctic
Description
Lapland poppy, scientifically known as Papaver lapponicum, is a captivating flower that graces the subarctic regions with its vibrant presence. Endemic to the cold and often harsh environments of the subarctic, the Lapland poppy is a resilient member of the Papaveraceae family, a group known for their striking floral displays and hardy nature.
The botanical journey of understanding Papaver lapponicum was extensively chronicled in the early 20th century. A significant contribution to its study was made in 1931, when it was detailed in the publication “Bergens Museums Årbog” (Jahresbuch), under the section for Natural Sciences, providing valuable insights into its characteristics and habitat preferences. The taxonomical classification of this captivating poppy was attributed to Tolm., and later, it was further refined by Nordh., cementing its scientific identity in botanical records.
The Lapland poppy thrives in subarctic conditions, where it adorns the landscape with its bright yellow flowers, a stark contrast to the often bleak and frosty surroundings. Its ability to endure the extreme temperatures and short growing seasons of these regions is a testament to its robust nature. The plant’s floral architecture not only adds a splash of color to the subarctic but also plays a role in the local ecosystem, supporting pollinators such as bees and other insects adapted to these climates.
Intriguingly, the Lapland poppy has adapted to bloom during the brief arctic summer, showcasing its flowers during the peak of the season when pollinators are most active. This strategic timing ensures that the plant maximizes its chances for reproduction in an environment where opportunities are fleeting.
Papaver lapponicum stands as a symbol of endurance and beauty in the subarctic, embodying the delicate balance of nature’s elegance and resilience. Its study and continued observation provide botanists and nature enthusiasts with deeper insights into the complexities of plant life in some of the world’s most challenging climates.
Common Names
Nor: kolavalmue
Eng: lapland poppy
Nno: kolavalmue
Nob: kolavalmue
Swe: talviksvallmo
Sme: guoládagaajerássi
Fra: pavot de laponie
En: Lapland poppy
Fr: Pavot de Laponie
Se: Guoládagaajerássi
No: Kolavalmue
Nb: Kolavalmue
Nn: Kolavalmue
Sv: Talviksvallmo
Synonyms
- Papaver radicatum subsp. lapponicum (Tolm.)
Distribution
- Alaska (native)
- East European Russia (native)
- Greenland (native)
- Krasnoyarsk (native)
- Labrador (native)
- Magadan (native)
- North European Russi (native)
- Northwest Territorie (native)
- Norway (native)
- Nunavut (native)
- Québec (native)
- West Siberia (native)
- Yakutskiya (native)
- Yukon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 4, 2022 by Mary Kingfishers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 4, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- WFO (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888452)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:673576-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Papaver lapponicum (Tolm.) Nordh.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
