It may not be the sound of music that drives florists in California to create fabulous California poppy inspired designs, but it is definitely the appearance of a drop of golden sun that has helped the California poppy (Eschsholzia californica) become the state flower and a celebrated symbol of life in The Golden State. Adopted officially in 1903, the California poppy stands proudly with pop and zing as the California state flower. Californians celebrate the amazing flower with an annual Poppy Day each April but that’s not all.

The vibrant colors of the California poppy make it a perfect display as many people desire to surround themselves with beauty and art. California poppies grow wild throughout the state and create a background of lavish orange decoration. This bright golden color is the reason that the California poppy is also sometimes called la amapola (the flame flower), dormidera (drowsy one) or most commonly copa de oro (cup of gold).

As the state flower, California poppy (Eschsholzia californica) preservation is a key concern. For this reason, the California Poppy Reserve is a unique state park where the poppy is kept as close to a natural growth as possible. The poppy grows wildly here and thrives in the arid environment. Park workers at the California Poppy Reserve do not water or actively garden the more than 1700 acres of poppies. In fact, the only proactive action taking toward plentiful growth involves planned burns to deter natural fires.

Another unique fact about the California poppy is that it is illegal inside of the state to pick, destroy, or dig up the flower. No kidding! Visiting a local nursery may be the only legal way to pick up your pot of poppies (how many did Peter Piper pick?) but it is also a great way to enjoy the beauty of these inspiring blooms. Of course, you could also have your California florists create a flower arrangement inspired by the warm colors of the California poppy. It’s a win-win situation.