Native to western North America and now widely naturalized, this poppy family (Papaveraceae) genus is made up of around 8 annuals and short-lived perennials. Commonly known as California poppies, they have fine feathery foliage, which is often a rather grayish green, and in summer produce masses of bright, golden yellow, 4-to 8-petalled blooms that only open on sunny days. Modern seed strains flower in a wide color range. Long seed capsules follow. The genus was named in 1820 after Johann Friedrich Eschscholz (17931831).leader of the Russian expedition on which it was first collected in 1916. The seeds were among the many taken to England by the Scottish botanist David Douglas.
CULTIVATION
Very easily grown in any sunny position in light, gritty, well-drained soil, Eschscholzia species often self-sow and naturalize, especially in gravel riverbeds. Most are very frost hardy and tolerate poor soil. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Raise from seed in spring, which is best sown directly where the plants are to grow as they do not transplant well.
Top Tip
Undemanding annuals, these plants are ideal for filling large areas of ground with color. They require little care and reward with colorful blooms.
CULTIVATION
Very easily grown in any sunny position in light, gritty, well-drained soil, Eschscholzia species often self-sow and naturalize, especially in gravel riverbeds. Most are very frost hardy and tolerate poor soil. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Raise from seed in spring, which is best sown directly where the plants are to grow as they do not transplant well.
Top Tip
Undemanding annuals, these plants are ideal for filling large areas of ground with color. They require little care and reward with colorful blooms.
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