Eschscholzia californica: The Wild Child of California

Eschscholzia californica, commonly known as the California poppy, is a wild child of a plant native to the state of California. This mischievous flower can often be found gleefully popping up in unexpected places, such as between cracks in sidewalks or even in the middle of busy roads.

The California poppy’s bright orange petals and sunny disposition make it a beloved symbol of the Golden State. It was even chosen as the state flower in 1903, beating out several other contenders, including the stunning Golden Gate lily and the charming Mariposa lily.

Despite its popularity, however, the California poppy has a bit of a rebellious streak. It can sometimes be found hanging out with less savory characters, such as poison oak and stinging nettle. And despite its cheerful appearance, this flower has a bit of a dark side - it contains chemicals that are commonly used to make opium.

But don’t let the California poppy’s wild ways fool you - it’s actually a pretty easygoing plant. It requires very little water and can easily thrive in even the most barren and neglected landscapes. It’s also a great plant for lazy gardeners, as it will readily self-seed and spread throughout a garden without much effort on your part.

Overall, the California poppy is a true Renaissance flower - beautiful, versatile, and always up for a good time. Whether it’s basking in the California sun or popping up unexpectedly in your front yard, this wild child of a plant is sure to bring a smile to your face.