Eschscholzia californica, commonly known as California poppy, is a vibrant perennial wildflower native to the western United States and northern Mexico. It is the official state flower of California and is highly valued for its drought tolerance, ease of cultivation, and spectacular golden-orange cup-shaped flowers.
Before sowing
Cold stratification may enhance germination; smoke treatment beneficial for wild populations
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Seeds require light for germination and should not be buried deeply (1/16 to 1/4 inch maximum). Plant seeds in fall for spring germination in most regions. Once established, plants are extremely drought-tolerant. Cool nights are required for abundant flowering. Direct seeding is recommended over transplanting as seedlings are difficult to transplant.
Sources: Johnny's Selected Seeds, NativeFloraSeeds.org, Calscape.org, Great Basin Seed, Western Native Seed, USDA Plant Materials Center, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Missouri Botanical Garden
