The California Poppy

The California Poppies’ (Eschscholzia californica) bold and bright appearance has made it the perfect flower to represent the Golden state of California. This flowering plant is native along the west coast of the United States, from Baja California all the way up to the western region of Oregon. Similarly, the California Poppy can also be found throughout the United states in a variety of different colors. In the wild, their colors range from bright yellows and oranges and they have even been bred to produce white, pink and red petals which look beautiful in contrast with its green petals and leaves. When in full bloom, the flower has four petals and can grow up to 20 to 30 cm in height. California poppies are annual bloomers, meaning that they only flower during the hotter weathers of the spring and summer months as shown here.

Due to the fact that they are seasonal flowers, they are also considered bedding plants, which means that they are planted in adjacent to other flowering plants that require similar growing seasons and conditions. When deliberately planted, California poppies can be often found next to Purple Tansy, also referred to as Lacy Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia) a beautiful flowering plant with bright blue-purple flowers. Not only do these two species of flowers look beautiful due to their contrasting colors, they have very similar growing conditions which make them a great match.

The bright and beautiful petals of the California poppy attracts a myriad of pollinators, such as the honey bee shown here. In addition to honey bees, bumble bees, butterflies, and beetles are among some of the most common pollinators of this beautiful plant.

Planting California poppies in their native habitats can be beneficial for the health of the environment. Due to the fact that California poppies naturally inhabit the west coast, they are well adapted to the temperatures and climates. California poppies are considered to be somewhat drought tolerant and can withstand the hot California sun and attract both native and non-native pollinator species. The bright and elegant appearance of the California poppy makes it a beautiful addition to any home garden and an excellent choice for the sustainability of our pollinators.