The bright orange blooms of the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) are an iconic sign of spring in the Bay Area. Each golden flower has four petals, which will close at night, or during cold, windy or cloudy weather. The leaves of the California poppy are blue-green and divided into round, lobed segments.
The California poppy was selected as the California state flower in 1903. Fun fact: April 6th is officially designated as California poppy day in the state of California!
Blooming period: February to September
Habitat: California poppies prefer open, sunny grasslands, but can also be found in many other habitat types, such as chaparral, coastal scrub, and sunny areas of oak woodlands and redwood forests.
Where to find: Coal Creek Open Space Preserve, Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve and Windy Hill Open Space Preserve.
