California Poppy

Botanical Name: 
Eschscholzia californica
Family: 
Poppy Family (Papaveraceae)
Origin: 
Native to California and Oregon.
At Hearst Castle: 
This California native plant is found along the highway and roads up to the Castle. A common spring companion is the native lupine.
Comments: 
A great naturalizer on hillsides or along roadways. Sow seeds in fall for mild winter areas; in spring in cold winter areas. Cultivate soil before broadcasting seed. Keep ground moist until germination.
Description: 
A perennial with slender stems (8"-24" long) and blue-green divided leaves. Plant grows to a rounded habit, 12" high with wider spread. Single, satiny-petaled orange flowers. Colors can vary. Blooms spring into summer. Re-seeds freely.