Fig 1: Meconopsis aculeata, or Himalayan Blue Poppy, is also known as the “Queen of Himalayan Flowers” (Photo credit: iStock/Riddhi Varsani)
Maybe you are hearing about this flower for the first time. Or maybe you have come across it before. Remember a scene from the 2005 movie “Batman Begins” in which Bruce Wayne picks up a mysterious blue flower? That’s the Himalayan blue poppy for you!
What is so special about this flower? Before I answer this question, here’s something to ponder upon: How many true-blue flowers have you come across? Are the “true-blue” flowers that you are listing in your head right now actually purple, lavender or violet? I guess you just discovered that they indeed are! That’s the charm of blue; it is the most uncommon flower color in the world. In fact, less than 10% of the flowers are blue in color. There are no true-blue pigments in plants, hence they attain blue coloration by mixing other pigments – somewhat like the picture below!
Fig 2: An artist with his color mixing palette (Photo credit: iStock/Marti Rossello Garrido)
The Himalayan blue poppies have been memorably described as having the “purest blue of any flowers yet known, a mixture of azure and cerulean that is unparalleled in the plant kingdom.” It ought to thank the soil of the Valley of Flowers for its unique color, though. The soil here is slightly acidic, which is perfect for the blue coloration. As the soil becomes alkaline, the flowers take on a purple hue. Contrast the delicately colored petals with the bouquet of bright yellow stamens in the center, and you have a flower rightfully bears the title of “Queen of Himalayan Flowers”!
Fig 3: Himalayan blue poppy (Photo credit: iStock/ePhotocorp)
Adventure curated by the brands you trust
Hike the legendary Nüümü Poyo (John Muir Trail), while forming lasting bonds with like-minded travelers.
Set up camp with iconic backdrops, enjoying an authentic travel experience in the outdoors.
This trip is inspired by REI Co-op, operated by Intrepid Travel. REI Co-op members save 15% on this itinerary.
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