California Poppy
(Eschscholzia californica)

Typically considered a hardy annual, this state flower of California is also a short-lived perennial in zones 8-10. Plants grow 12-18 inches tall with blue-green, finely divided leaves. Flowers are deep orange to pale yellow and 2-4 inches across, and honey bees are often seed collecting pollen on the flowers. Plants typically bloom in 55 days from seeding. Many improved varieties are available.