The California Poppy, or Eschscholzia californica, is a stunning flowering plant that is native to the Western United States and Mexico. Its cup-shaped flowers come in a range of brilliant colors, including red, orange, and yellow, and it blooms from February to September. The plant is easy to cultivate and drought-tolerant, making it a popular choice for gardens. It’s also used as a food or garnish, and the seeds can be used in cooking. In 1903, the California Poppy became the official state flower of California due to its golden blooms, which perfectly represent the Golden State. This beautiful plant is perfect for sunny borders and meadows, and its unique beauty will add a touch of brilliance and charm to any landscape. Sow the seed in mid-spring or late summer to early autumn and just cover the seed, with germination typically taking 2-3 weeks. Autumn sown plants may require protection from frost in cold winters. Try growing California Poppies to enjoy their stunning colors and support native plants in your area.