A hardy annual up to 60 cm (2 ft.) tall, with finely divided, feathery leaves. A mass of shallow-cupped flowers in orange, yellow, red and occasionally white appear in early summer, followed by long curved seedpods. There is also a wide range of cultivars.
History and traditions
This bright-yellow poppy is the state flower of California. It has similar properties to those of the opium poppy but milder and was used by Native Americans as a gentle narcotic and pain reliever, especially against toothache.
Growth
Grow this plant in well-drained to poor soil and full sun, for the best-quality flowers. Propagated by seed sown in situ in spring or autumn. Sow succession ally for a continuous show of flowers.
Uses
Medicinal
The Californian poppy is a sedative herb that relieves pain and it is taken internally as an infusion, for anxiety, nervous tension and insomnia. It also has diuretic properties and promotes perspiration.
