Species

Eschscholzia californicaCalifornia Poppy

8 other cultivars

annualN. America Native

California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl'

Eschscholzia californica 'Cherry Swirl'

The Story

Plant Bio

A cultivar of the California Poppy with semi-double, fluted flowers. The petals are a vibrant carmine-rose on the inside with a creamy-white to yellow reverse and center.

Distinctive bicolor blooms that make it visually appealing in garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, cheerful flowers add vibrant color to gardens and borders.

Easy to grow and maintain, ideal for naturalized areas.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesEschscholzia californicaCalifornia Poppy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual or short-lived perennial

Native To

California

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture, avoiding overwatering.
Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
Water regularly during dry spells, especially during germination.
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding as they grow taller.
Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors for the most natural and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots during flowering period
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak stems

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border plant with scarlet-red flowersWildflower meadow accentColorful rock garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

California poppies Lupines CoreopsisYarrow Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' questions

What zones can California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' grow in?

California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' deer resistant?

Yes — California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' bloom?

California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' need full sun?

California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), California Poppy 'Cherry Swirl' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.