Eschscholzia californica
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Common NameCalifornia Poppy
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CA NativeCalifornia Native
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Plant TypePerennial
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Size6" - 12" x 6" - 10"
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Flower ColorYellow to Orange
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Bloom Time
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Spring
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Summer
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LeavesFinely Divided Bluish-Green
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EvergreenDeciduous
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Deer ResistantRarely Damaged
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Wildlife Value
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Attracts Beneficial Insects
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Bees
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Growth RateFast
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HardinessHardy
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Adverse Growth FactorsInvasive
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Special Features
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Low Maintenance
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Showy Flowers
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Water Use
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Drought Tolerant
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Low
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Soil pH6.5-7.5 (neutral)
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Exposure
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Full Sun
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Partial Shade
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Shade
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Soil TypeNot Particular
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DrainageGood Drainage
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Description and Cultural Plant Tips
This native california poppy will put on a nonstop show of bright yellow to orange color in late spring and early summer. Because it can be invasive, it is best to put this plant on hillsides or meadows where it can multiply freely. If planted in a garden, it will need regular deadheading to keep attractive. Companion plants include purple moor grass (Molinia caerulea), blue fescue (Festuca) and sea thrift (Armenia maritima). Desert Indian tribes are reported to have eaten the leaves, applied the pollen as a cosmetic and used as decoction to kill lice.
Can be grown from seed. Transplants poorly because of long taproot. Broadcast seeds in the fall or early spring in well-drained soil that has been spaded or raked. Likes full sun but will tolerate part shade.
Beneficial insects are attracted to this plant for its nectar.
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Master Gardener Comments
This is a great plant for a natural meadow setting. Will self -seed once established ans is maintenance-free. Can be invasive in a garden setting.
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Varietals
E. california 'Red Chief' - scarlet flower
E. california 'Sundew' - lemon yellow flower
E. california 'Thai Silk Rose Bush' - rose flower
E. california 'Thai Silk Apricot Rose Bush' - apricot flowers