About Orange California Poppy: These golden wildflowers have been the state flower of California since 1903. Their habit of opening and closing with the sun makes them appropriate emblems for the Golden State; they also have a holiday all their own, since April 6 is official California Poppy Day. This poppy was the first identified member of the Eschscholzia genus, identified in 1816 by German botanist Adelbert von Chamisso on an exploratory voyage to California and the Pacific Northwest. Chamisso named the genus after a fellow botanist, Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz, who accompanied him on the journey. In 1826, noted English botanist David Douglas gathered seed from this species for the Royal Botanical Society; this poppy became one of the first American poppies to cross the ocean to Europe.
Orange California Poppy Germination: Sow in early spring, planting the seed ¼” below the surface of the soil; keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which should occur in 2-3 weeks at a soil temperature of 60-65 degrees. In USDA Zones 7 and warmer, this seed can be fall planted. Poppies do not transplant well, and must be planted while very small if started indoors. This plant tolerates most soils that drain well, as well as adapting to seaside conditions.
Growing Orange California Poppy Seeds: Water seedlings occasionally, but decrease watering as the plants mature; poppies tolerate drought well and will only need watering in periods of extreme dryness. This plant does not need rich soil, and actually blooms best in poor soil. Pinch off faded blossoms for the most prolific blooming. These flowers prefer cool temperatures, usually blooming in spring and early summer and going dormant when the summer heat begins. Though an annual, it will reseed itself and return the following year. Poppies attract bees and butterflies.
Harvesting Orange California Poppy: For the longest lasting cut flowers, choose poppies that have just begun to open; cut them in the morning while the moisture is at its peak. Sear the cut ends of the flowers with boiling water or a match, and immediately plunge them into cold water. Place them in a vase with water at room temperature.
Saving Orange California Poppy Seeds: When saving poppy seeds, keep in mind that the resulting flowers sometimes revert to the dominant orange or red blossoms. After the petals drop off, a capsule will form and turn from green to tan. Since the capsules will eventually split and explosively release their seeds, cut them off as soon as the color begins to turn and the seed inside has ripened to grayish black. Spread the capsules out to dry for several days, then split them to remove the seeds. Store the cleaned seeds in a cool, dry place.
Detailed Orange California Poppy Info: Origin: US Native Other Common Names: Golden Poppy, California Sunlight, Cup of Gold Duration: Annual Bloom Time: Spring-Early Summer Height: 6-12 inches Spacing: 8-10 inches Light: Full Sun Soil Moisture: Dry to Medium USDA Zone: 3a-10b Seeds Per Oz: 15,600 Produces finely divided, fern-like bluish green foliage and 2-3” blossoms with silky golden-orange petals.