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Perennial- California Poppy

  • California Poppy
    Common Name: California Poppy

    Botanical Name: Eschscholzia californica

    Family:  Papaveraceae

    Description: Native to the Pacific slope of North America from Western Oregon to Baja California; California State flower; perennial, can be grown as annual

    Sun: Full sun

    Water: Extremely drought tolerant, ideal for arid environments

    Soil: Light to sandy soil

    Habit and form: Free branching from the base with slender 8-24 long stems and blue-green finely divided leaves; flowers close at night and overcast days; reseeds freely

    Flower type: 2-4 inch cup shaped 4-petaled flowers borne individually on long stalks

    Flower color & bloom season: Brilliant yellow or orange flowers bloom on sunny days April-August

    Uses for plant and/or flowers: Excellent color accent for any wildflower garden; popular flower for pressing

    Maintenance tips: Sow seeds in fall in mild winter areas. Can also be used as cover crop, for example, between orchard or garden rows
    California Poppy as cover crop


    Comments: Can be poisonous if ingested