Eschscholzia californica

Common Names:

California Poppy, Golden Poppy, California Sunlight, Cup of Gold

Phonetic Spelling: 

Es-kol-zee-uh kal-uh-for-ni-kuh

Description: 

Stands at approximately 5 to 61 centimeters tall. Characterized by its four petals and deep yellow, orange, and cream colors in the wild. Discovered by Adelbert von Chamisso who named it after J. F. Eschscholtz. Is the state flower of California. Also used for medicinal purposes for treating insomnia, aches, etc. Are heat and drought-tolerant and grow best in full sun with drained soil.

Distribution/Location: 

Native to the United States and Mexico.

Environmental Concerns: 

Can be considered an invasive species in some areas around the world. Threats include flower picking, trampling, etc by tourists.

Citation(s): 

https://calscape.org/Eschscholzia-californica-(California-Poppy)

Learn More: 

https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/eschscholzia-californica