Purple Gleam California Poppy is a vibrant heirloom cultivar of Eschscholzia californica that brings jewel-toned purple blooms to sunny gardens from spring through fall. Growing just 8 to 12 inches tall with a compact 6-inch spread, this variety flowers within 56 to 70 days from seed, making it satisfyingly quick for gardeners eager to see results. It thrives on neglect once established, requiring only full sun and well-drained soil, and its drought tolerance and deer resistance make it a reliable performer in challenging garden spots.
8
Full Sun
Low
6-10
12in H x 6in W
—
High
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Purple Gleam delivers the rich, saturated color that standard California poppies often lack. Its low water needs and pest-free growing habit mean you can direct sow seeds in early spring and essentially forget about it until blooms appear. The extended blooming season from March through November provides continuous color with minimal fussing, and its compact size fits seamlessly into borders, containers, or cottage garden drifts.
California poppies grown as ornamental flowers in borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows. Purple Gleam's compact habit and extended bloom season make it especially valuable for edging pathways, filling in front-of-border positions, or growing in containers on patios and balconies where its cheerful color can be enjoyed up close.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors in containers 4 weeks before your last spring frost. Keep soil temperature between 60 and 65°F for reliable germination. Seeds typically sprout within 7 to 14 days. Once seedlings develop true leaves, harden them off gradually before transplanting outdoors after the last frost date.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost has passed. Space plants 8 inches apart in well-drained soil positioned in full sun.
Direct sowing is the recommended method. Sow in early spring or fall, or in late winter if you garden in zones 8 to 10 where winters are mild. Direct sowing often produces sturdier plants and eliminates the need for seed starting indoors.
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