Eschscholzia californica 'Strawberry Fields'

Species

Eschscholzia californicaCalifornia Poppy

8 other cultivars

annualN. America Native

California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields'

Eschscholzia californica 'Strawberry Fields'

The Story

Plant Bio

This cultivar features vibrant, reddish-orange flowers and is known for its compact growth habit.

Strawberry Fields has a unique flower color, distinct from the traditional bright yellow of California poppies.

Uses & Benefits:

Eschscholzia californica Strawberry Fields offers vibrant, long-lasting blooms that brighten gardens and containers, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens, reducing maintenance and water bills.

Provides nectar for native pollinators and supports local biodiversity.

SpeciesEschscholzia californicaCalifornia Poppy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

California

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds directly into well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist for germination.
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, maintaining 8-10 inches apart.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds in fall for early spring blooms or in early spring for faster results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead to promote continuous flowering
Mulch around plants to retain moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots while weeding
Never use high-nitrogen fertilizer which encourages foliage over flowers

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 spring borderWildflower meadow accentColorful container display

Companion Plants

California poppy Lupine Yarrow Blue-eyed grass Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' questions

What zones can California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' grow in?

California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. 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 'Strawberry Fields' deer resistant?

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

When does California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' bloom?

California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' 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 'Strawberry Fields' need full sun?

California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is California Poppy 'Strawberry Fields' drought tolerant?

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