Strawberry Fields California Poppy brings a wave of warm, sunset-inspired color to gardens from spring straight through fall. This cultivar of the classic California poppy grows to a compact 8-12 inches tall, making it perfect for borders, containers, and cottage garden displays. Direct sown in early spring, it reaches full bloom in just 56-70 days, rewarding patient gardeners with weeks of silky petals that open in full sun and close at dusk. Low water needs and proven drought tolerance mean once established, this poppy thrives on neglect, asking only for sharp drainage and sunshine.
8
Full Sun
Low
6-10
12in H x 6in W
—
High
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The name hints at the strawberry-red tones that set this poppy apart from the typical golden California poppies. It flowers reliably from March through November in most growing zones, providing continuous color when many other annuals have faded. Deer leave it alone, and pollinators flock to the open blooms, making it both a wildlife magnet and a trouble-free addition to low-maintenance gardens.
California poppies like this cultivar are grown primarily for ornamental display in borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows. The showy blooms add color to container plantings and mixed beds without demanding regular deadheading or fussy care.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors in containers 4 weeks before your last spring frost, keeping them at 60-65°F. Surface sow the seeds and press them lightly into the soil or cover with just 1/8 inch of soil; they need light to germinate. Expect sprouts to emerge in 7-14 days.
Harden off seedlings gradually before moving them outdoors after the last frost date has passed. Plant them 8 inches apart in a location with full sun and sharp drainage.
Direct sowing is the recommended method. Sow seeds in early spring or fall; in mild winter areas (zones 8-10), late winter sowing works well. Surface sow the seeds and press them lightly into soil or apply just a light cover of 1/8 inch. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs in 7-14 days.
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