Poppy – Californian (Eschscholzia californica) Cailleach Californach

Appearance:
California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) has bright, cup-shaped flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and sometimes red or pink. The foliage is feathery, blue-green, and finely divided.

Growth Habit:
It is an annual or short-lived perennial that grows 12-18 inches tall, spreading in a bushy clump. It blooms profusely from spring to early summer.

Cultivation:
Easily grown from seed; direct sow in autumn or early spring. It is drought-tolerant and self-seeds freely, creating drifts of color.

Soil:
Prefers poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Thrives in sandy or gravelly conditions.

Sunlight:
Full sun. It needs plenty of light to bloom abundantly.

Watering:
Water sparingly; drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering can cause root rot.

Uses:
Used as a mild sedative and for anxiety relief. Native Americans also used it as a pain reliever and to promote sleep.

Dyeing:
No significant use in dyeing.

Ornamental:
Highly valued in gardens for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms. Suitable for wildflower gardens, borders, and containers.

Medicinal:
Traditionally used as a gentle sedative, analgesic, and to treat insomnia. It is non-addictive and milder than the opium poppy, with no narcotic properties.

Maintenance:
Low maintenance; deadhead to extend bloom period. Cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush. Self-seeds readily, providing blooms year after year.