In the lovely burst of orange of the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) at the entrance to our property, two red blossoms have opened. This is the first I've ever seen of the red California poppy despite being a California native who tends to spend quite a bit of time outdoors.
With a bit of online research, I've discovered that these plants are not impostors. They too are Eschscholzia californica, most likely either Mikado or Red Chief.
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Very cool! I never knew there was such a thing, and we had poppies everywhere when I lived in CA.
ReplyDeleteI spent the first 31 years of my life in California, and never saw red ones either- I didn't know it could happen. They are sure beautiful though. Do you think you could save seed from them? Maybe help cross pollinate them with a paint brush and then save and replant the seed? I'd be sorely tempted to do that if they were in my yard.
ReplyDeleteI like them with the cactus. Kind of reminds me of ocotillo, which I think beautiful.
What's the yellow stuff in the background?
Oooh, oooh! What Paula said about saving seed. I would LOVE to see that red among my gold. Paula, the yellow stuff is regular Calif. poppies, I believe.
ReplyDeleteYes, the yellow in the background is the traditional California poppy. If I can harvest seed (I've only had two blossoms so far, keep your fingers crossed that they have produced harvestable seed), Paula & Sue, they have your names on them.
ReplyDeleteIn my online research, I found a vendor of the Mikado in Silverton, OR. Hopefully, that's an indicator that they will grow in your region, Paula. Here it is: Silver Falls Seed Company.