Eschscholzia caespitosa ‘Sundew’

Eschscholzia caespitosa ‘Sundew’ (Sundew Poppy, Tufted Poppy, Foothill Poppy)

You know spring is just around the corner when you see our beloved California Poppies (Eschscholzia californica ‘Orange King’) growing and blooming along the roadsides of the Central Coast. Think of Eschscholzia caespitosa ‘Sundew’ as ‘Orange King’s’ casual and cute cousin. Pronounced (es-SHOLT-zee-uh) (kess-pi-TOH-suh), this darling wildflower is native to California and south western Oregon. The charming buttery-lemon-yellow flowers are cup-shaped and emerge in spring and summer. The grey-green foliage is finely dissected - almost thread like, and has a tufted growth habit. At maturity the plant grows about 6 inches tall and wide.

The saying “Right plant, right place” is one that definitely applies to Eschscholzia caespitosa. If planted in an area with full sun and very well-drained soil, ‘Sundew’ will reseed and return each spring for many years to come. This plant is a good addition to a wildflower meadow, cottage garden or herb garden as it will draw in bees and other beneficial pollinators. Tucked among native Salvias, ‘Sundew’, along with its bigger cousin ‘Orange King’ adds bright and cheerful pops of color to the cool greys and greens of many California Native plants. The Sunset Climate Zones are 1-24; H1.

We are currently growing Eschscholzia caespitosa ‘Sundew’ in our Special Selection 6 pack flats. Get them while they last. Visit our website www.clearwatercolor.com to see photos of these and many other plants we are growing.