Local Verdict
"The quintessential wildflower for sunny, dry spots. It reseeds reliably and requires zero summer water once established."
Overview
The California Poppy is more than just our state flower; it is a symbol of the resilience required to thrive in our Mediterranean climate. In Tuolumne County, it paints the foothills orange starting in March and can persist well into June.
Its fern-like, blue-green foliage provides interest even before the satiny petals unfurl. Though technically a perennial in mild winters, it often acts as an annual here, relying on its prolific seed production to return year after year.
Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Water Needs
Low / Rainfall only
Soil Type
Poor, sandy, well-draining
Elevation
500 - 6,000 ft
Care Cheat Sheet
- 01.
Sow in Fall: Scatter seeds before the first winter rains for best germination.
- 02.
Deadhead: Remove spent flowers to prolong the blooming season.
- 03.
Don't Transplant: They have a deep taproot and hate being moved. Direct sow only.
Related Plants
Special Notes
- • Thrives in disturbed soil.
- • Closes up on cloudy days.