Family: Papaveraceae Genus: Eschscholzia
Species: Eschscholzia californica Cham.
Common Name(s): Californian poppy, California sunlight, gold poppy
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Eschscholzia californica, commonly known as the Californian poppy, is a beautiful and vibrant wildflower. It’s native to California, but also found in other parts of North America, and in parts of Europe and Asia. The plant is known for its bright orange or yellow flowers that have four petals that open during the day and close at night, and its cup-shaped base. (Along the Camino, travelers may also encounter the related Papaver dubium or “long-headed poppy,” which shares the same Papaveraceae family and displays striking red or orange-red flowers.)
Cultural Significance
In 1903, the Californian poppy was declared the official state flower of California, and it is the official flower of the city of San Francisco. It’s long been admired by writers, artists, poets, and musicians, and is referenced in literature, art, poetry, and music.
Traditional Medicine
California poppy has been used by Native American tribes to address a wide range of ailments. Tribes including the Costanoan, Kashaya Pomo, and Luiseno, used the plant as a mild sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) herb. It was also often used to relieve headaches and toothaches, ease stomach discomfort or mild digestive issues, or soothe skin conditions such as burns, wounds, or rashes. Due to its sedative properties, California poppy was sometimes used to promote sleep and alleviate insomnia.163
Horticulture, Ornamental, and Other Colorful Uses
Today, the Californian poppy is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant and its flowers are often used in floral arrangements. The plant is also grown commercially for its seeds, which are used in the production of herbal supplements and cosmetics.164
Ecology
The Californian poppy is a natural source of food for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It’s also been used to control soil erosion due to its extensive root system which helps to stabilize soil on hillsides and other areas prone to erosion.