How To Order: Quantity options listed represent bulk weights. Examples: 1 = 1 lbs, 25 = 25 bs.
 
Common Name: Mexican Gold Poppy
Scientific Name: Eschscholzia californica ssp .mexicana
Native / Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Wildflower plantings
~As a pollinator
Height: ½ – 1 1/2 ft tall
Colors: Orange and yellow
Flowering Season: Spring
Soil Types: Sandy to medium texture soils
Tolerances: Drought
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Minimum Precipitation: 14 - 20 inches
Elevation: Up to 7,000 ft
Lifecycle: Annual
Planting Seed Rate: 3 - 6 lbs/acre
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 800,000
Optimal Planting Season: Fall or spring
Planting Depth: 1/8 inch
Stratification Requirements: None
Category: Forbs
 
Description:
Mexican Gold Poppy, a subspecies of California Poppy, thrives in the desert regions of Arizona, New Mexico, California, Texas, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada. This vibrant wildflower displays its resplendent golden-yellow blooms in early spring, primarily adorning the slopes of desert hills. Flourishing best in sandy to medium-textured soils, this poppy is characterized by its resilience to drought once established, making it an ideal choice for arid landscapes with low water availability.
 
Mexican Gold Poppy thrives in full-sun conditions. It is a valuable addition to wildflower mixes, contributing both visual appeal and serving as a pollinator. Additionally, this poppy species is adept at reseeding on its own, contributing to its sustainable growth and presence in its native habitat. Mexican Gold Poppy particularly flourishes after warm, wet winters or substantial cool spring rainfall, highlighting its adaptive nature to specific climatic conditions.
 
Resources:
NRCS Plant Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ESCAM
 
Photo Credits: Eileen Kane and Patrick Alexander