California Poppy

Scientific Name:Eschscholzia californica

USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 10

Approximate number of seeds per kilogram (pound) : 649,000 (295,000)

Sun: full sun

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination, do not overwater

Soil: cover with 1/16 inch of soil, use light, sandy, well-drained soil, fertilizing is usually not necessary.

Temperature: 16 to 21 degrees Celsius (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 8 pounds per acre for a meadow

Germination Time: two to four weeks

The California Poppy is the state flower of California and is native to the southwestern United States.  They are not suitable for tropical areas and prefer more arid climates.  These poppies make an excellent plant for rock gardens, meadows and borders.  California Poppies typically bloom from April to August depending on the climate since they are only hardy to about (-7 degrees Celsius (20 degrees Fahrenheit).