California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

Dried California Poppy, the bright orange-flowered annual that is the official state flower of California. Eschscholzia californica has a long tradition of use among the Native peoples of California and is distinct from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) despite both being in the poppy family.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Eschscholzia californica

Family

Papaveraceae (poppy family)

Native region

California, Western United States, Northern Mexico

State symbol

Official state flower of California (designated 1903)

Distinct from

Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum); same family, different genus and chemistry

Studied compounds

Isoquinoline alkaloids including californidine, eschscholtzine, protopine

What is California Poppy?

California Poppy is a flowering annual native to grasslands and open areas of California and the western United States. The plant produces bright orange (sometimes yellow) cup-shaped flowers and finely divided blue-green foliage. The whole plant, including flowers, leaves, and stems, has been used traditionally by California Native peoples as a calming and sleep-supporting herb.

Despite being a poppy, California Poppy is botanically and chemically distinct from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). California Poppy contains isoquinoline alkaloids but does not contain opiate alkaloids like morphine.

How to Use California Poppy

Traditional preparation is a tea: steep one to two teaspoons of dried plant material per cup in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain. California Poppy is also commonly prepared as a tincture (alcohol extraction) for convenient dosing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is California Poppy the same as opium poppy?
No; California Poppy and opium poppy are different genera within the poppy family. California Poppy does not contain morphine or other opiate alkaloids.

What is California Poppy used for?
Traditionally, for calming and sleep support. The plant has documented use among Native California peoples for these purposes.

How is California Poppy traditionally prepared?
Tea and tincture are the most common modern preparations. Steep the dried plant in hot water or steep in alcohol for tincture.

Is it legal in the US?
Yes, Eschscholzia californica is not federally scheduled. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental.

What part of the plant is used?
The whole plant including flowers, leaves, and stems.

Can I grow California Poppy at home?
Yes; California Poppy is a vigorous self-seeding annual easy to grow from seed. It prefers sun and well-drained soil.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.