California Poppy
Eschscholtzia californica
The California Poppy is the state flower of California and one of the most recognizable wildflowers in the West. With its brilliant orange petals and silky texture, it creates unforgettable spring displays across hillsides, meadows, and desert plains.
Appearance:
An annual or short-lived perennial that usually grows 6 to 18 inches tall. It has fine, bluish-green fern-like leaves and showy, cup-shaped flowers with four orange to golden-yellow petals that close at night or during cloudy weather.
Habitat:
Found in open fields, grassy slopes, and desert flats—especially in California but also into parts of Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. It grows well in sandy, well-drained soils and full sun.
Bloom Time:
Blooms from February to May, depending on rainfall and location.
Pollinators:
Attracts bees, butterflies, and other native insects. Its vibrant color and easy-to-access pollen make it a springtime favorite.
Note:
While often associated with coastal and inland California, the California Poppy also shows up in desert bloom years. It’s not just a symbol of spring—it’s a celebration of the resilience and beauty of native plants.