Poppy

A poppy is a type of flower from the Papaveraceae family – a bright, colorful, happy looking flower that also (in some species) happens to produce opium from its seed pods. The name is derived from the Olde English “popæg” (poppy), probably borrowed from the Latin root “*pap-“ meaning “to swell”, perhaps in reference to the swell of the flowers’ gorgeous, ornamental blooms. There are several species of the Poppy familiar to most folks. The corn poppy is blood red with a black center; it’s used in commemoration of dead soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefields of war. The opium poppy contains the alkaloid morphine (from which heroin is synthesized) and is therefore associated with both pharmaceutical and recreational drug use. This particular poppy plant is symbolic of sleepiness and peacefulness (putting people in dreamlike states released from their pain). For instance, Morpheus was the Greek god of dreams (see the connection to morphine)? Lastly, the poppies used ornamentally to beautify any garden might include the yellowish-orange California poppy (the state flower) or the gorgeous blue Himalayan poppy. Watch out for the bright and friendly Mexican prickly poppy, though – that one is poisonous! Even though the poppy has hidden dangers lingering behind her external beauty, there’s no doubt this is a universally admired flower. Plus, there’s just something about the name “poppy” that “pops” – it’s upbeat, happy, and approachable. What’s amazing is just how “pop”ular this name is outside of the United States. Apparently American parents haven’t gotten the memo from our fellow-English speaking countries who are fully embracing this name. For instance, it’s currently ranked #16 in England/Wales. It’s also a Top 50 female name of choice in Scotland and Northern Ireland and a Top 100 in Australia. North America? Not so much.