The Papaveraceae

The Poppy Family

Image of Papaveraceae Image of Papaveraceae
Papaver rhoeas Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis

The Papaveraceae are found primarily in north temperate to subtropical regions. Few can be found in southern montane Africa and eastern Australia. The most diversity is found in western North America and temperate Eurasia. There are 42 genera and 660 species. The common genera found in the US and Canada are Aregmone, Papaver, Eschscholzia and Corydalis. The plants are mostly annual or perennial herbs but can be vines, shrubs or tress.

Click here for a distribution map of the Papaveraceae in the U.S.A.

Vegetative Characters | Reproductive Characters | Diagnostic Characters | Economic Importance/Fun Facts | Evolutionary Adaptations and Relationships | Glossary of Terms | References and Links | Pictures


Vegetative Characters