California Poppies (Eschscholzia californica) are bright, cheerful wildflowers known for their silky cup-shaped blooms and fern-like blue-green foliage. Native to the western United States, these drought-tolerant flowers are excellent for wildflower meadows, rock gardens, borders, pollinator gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes.
California Poppies are among the easiest and most rewarding wildflowers to grow from seed. Their brilliant flowers attract bees and pollinators while tolerating heat, drought, poor soils, and dry climates once established.
The flowers close at night and during cloudy weather, reopening in bright sunlight.
California poppy seeds are best direct sown outdoors because the plants dislike root disturbance and transplanting.
Seeds may be planted:
Scatter seeds over loosened soil and lightly rake or press them into place. Cover only lightly because seeds require some light for good germination.
Keep the soil lightly moist until seedlings become established.
California poppies perform best in full sun and well-drained soil. Heavy wet soils may reduce flowering and encourage rot.
These flowers often perform better in lean or sandy soils than in overly rich ground.
Water gently during germination and early establishment. Once established, California poppies are highly drought tolerant and generally require minimal supplemental watering.
Thin crowded seedlings to improve airflow and flowering performance. Proper spacing also helps reduce disease problems in humid climates.
California poppies combine beautifully with:
California poppies attract:
After flowering, slender seed pods form and eventually dry. Allow pods to dry on the plant before collecting seed for future planting.
California poppies often self-seed naturally in favorable conditions.
Explore Seedman's California poppy seed collection including traditional orange forms, double flowering types, pastel shades, and unique ornamental varieties.
Shop All California Poppy Seeds at Seedman.com
To grow California poppies successfully, direct sow seeds in full sun, use well-drained soil, avoid excessive watering, and allow plants room to naturalize. These easy wildflowers reward gardeners with bright colorful blooms, pollinator activity, and excellent drought tolerance.