California Poppy

Eschscholzia californica

Have you ever seen a field of flowers so bright, you couldn't look directly at them? This happened to me at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve several years ago. It's past peak viewing there for this year, but worth a visit in future if you are anywhere nearby.

So, why am I mentioning Poppies if it past their prime? Because they are starting to sprout in Colorado Springs! I have loved California Poppies since I was a child. Their bright, shiny orange flowers are always so cheery. The California Poppy was named the California State Flower in 1903 due to its golden color, but it actually grows in 30 of the 50 US States.

California Poppies bloomed all over our yard in Southern California. I liked when the flowers were just about to bloom because I would pull off their hats and watch the petals unfold. Their "hats" were actually its calyptra or bud cover which protect the petals until the flower is ready to bloom. I'd also help explode the seeds later in the season. They are fantastic self-seeders and once, established, should return year after year.

I can't wait to see the bright orange flowers again this year. Unfortunately, Kansas is not one of the state where they grow, but that doesn't mean I am not going to try!

---