California's state flower, with silky orange, yellow, red, pink, or white blooms on feathery blue-green foliage. Self-sows prolifically, returning year after year. Thrives in poor, dry soil and full sun.
USDA Zones
6–10
Height
6"–2 ft at maturity
Bloom Season
March – June
Bloom Color
orange, yellow, red, pink, white
🦌 Deer ResistantDeer tend to avoid this plant🐾 Groundhog ResistantGroundhogs tend to avoid this plant🌿 Native to USNative to North America — supports local wildlife and ecosystems🐝 Attracts PollinatorsAttracts bees and other pollinators🦋 Attracts ButterfliesAttracts butterflies
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Sun Requirements
Full Sun
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
Soil Type
well-drained, sandy, rocky
Care Requirements
Water Needslow
Maintenancelow
EvergreenNo
Complete Care Guide
# California Poppy Care Guide
California Poppy is the state flower of California and one of the easiest wildflowers to grow. It thrives in poor, dry soil and full sun, self-sowing to return year after year.
## Planting
Direct sow seed in fall (mild climates) or early spring. Scatter seed on bare soil and rake lightly. Does not transplant well.
## Watering
Water lightly after sowing. Once established, rainfall is usually sufficient. Overwatering causes floppy growth.
## Deadheading
Allow seed pods to mature and scatter for self-sowing. Or collect seed pods before they open.
## Self-Sowing
California Poppy self-sows prolifically. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart for best results.