Papaver umbonatum prefers well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Reduce watering significantly in late summer and fall to mimic its native dry conditions and encourage dormancy.

Deadheading spent flowers encourages further blooming and prevents self-seeding if unwanted. In late autumn, after the plant has finished flowering and the foliage begins to yellow, cut back the dead stalks and leaves to the ground to tidy the plant and prepare it for winter.

Papaver umbonatum is easily propagated from seed. Sow seeds directly into the garden in autumn or early spring, as they benefit from a period of cold stratification. Germination can be erratic.

Division of established clumps is rarely necessary or successful.

As Papaver umbonatum is typically grown as an annual or short-lived perennial and dislikes root disturbance, repotting is generally not recommended. If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings into their final location as soon as they are large enough to handle, avoiding root damage.