Description
Bulk Red Chief California Poppy Seeds grow the familiar western native wildflower in a dramatic red form, with silky cup-shaped blooms and glowing golden centers above blue-green ferny foliage. This bulk packet is well suited to sunny low-water wildflower patches, California-style native gardens, and broad drifts where a clean red poppy color is the main event.
Why Grow It
- Deep red cup-shaped California poppy blooms with bright golden centers.
- Bulk approx. 500-seed packet for sunny wildflower drifts and low-water plantings.
- Thrives in lean, well-drained soil and Mediterranean-style cool-winter, dry-summer climates.
Growing Information
| Botanical name | Eschscholzia californica |
|---|---|
| Life cycle | Short-lived perennial in zones 9-11; commonly grown as an annual wildflower elsewhere |
| Mature height | About 12-18 in. tall |
| Light | Full sun |
| Bloom / harvest window | Spring to early summer; may rebloom after cool-season moisture in mild climates |
| Seed count | Approx. 500 seeds |
| Sowing advice | Direct sow in fall in mild Mediterranean climates or early spring after frost in colder areas. Surface sow or cover very lightly, and keep newly planted seed evenly moist until germination. |
| Spacing | Thin to 8-12 in. apart, or broadcast for a naturalized wildflower patch |
| Germination | Usually 10-20 days in cool to mild, evenly moist conditions |
Best For
- California and western native-style gardens
- bulk wildflower patches
- dry-summer meadow edges
- pollinator-friendly sunny beds
- low-water cottage borders
Packet Details
Includes approx. 500 seeds. Store seeds cool, dry, and dark until sowing. This bulk packet is intended for broad sunny sowings rather than single-plant starts.
FAQ
Is Red Chief an Oriental poppy?
No. This listing is Eschscholzia californica, the California poppy, with cup-shaped flowers and blue-green ferny foliage. It should not be grown or pictured like a large Oriental poppy.
Should I direct sow California poppy seed?
Yes. California poppies prefer direct sowing and dislike root disturbance. Scatter seed where plants will grow, press in lightly, and keep the area moist until seedlings establish.
Does it need rich soil?
No. Red Chief performs best in sunny, well-drained soil that is not overly rich. Too much fertility can produce leafy growth with fewer flowers.
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