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Description
Eschscholzia Caespitosa, commonly known as the Tufted Poppy or Foothill Poppy, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Papaveraceae family. It is native to California, specifically in the Sierra Nevada and Coastal Ranges. This plant produces bright yellow or orange blooms with four petals and a distinctive cup-shaped center. It is an annual plant that typically grows up to 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Eschscholzia |
Appearance
Eschscholzia Caespitosa has a unique appearance that is easily recognizable. It has a compact growth habit, forming tufts or clumps of lacy foliage. The leaves are blue-green and finely divided, giving the plant a feathery appearance. The flowers are single or in clusters at the end of the stems, measuring between 1 and 2 inches in diameter. The petals are bright yellow or orange, and the center is cup-shaped with numerous stamens and pistils. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Eschscholzia Caespitosa is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: This plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Eschscholzia Caespitosa prefers well-draining soil. You can add organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and blooming.- Hardiness Zones: Eschscholzia Caespitosa thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eschscholzia Caespitosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be prone to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. You can prevent these diseases by providing adequate air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and applying a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Eschscholzia Caespitosa is native to California and can be found in the Sierra Nevada and Coastal Ranges. It grows in dry, rocky slopes, and meadows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eschscholzia Caespitosa a perennial or annual plant?
A: Eschscholzia Caespitosa is an annual plant.
Q: Can Eschscholzia Caespitosa grow in containers?
A: Yes, Eschscholzia Caespitosa can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and it receives full sun exposure.
Q: How often should I water Eschscholzia Caespitosa?
A: Eschscholzia Caespitosa requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Q: What is the best time to plant Eschscholzia Caespitosa?
A: The best time to plant Eschscholzia Caespitosa is in the spring when the soil has warmed up.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eschscholzia Caespitosa:- Eschscholzia californica (California Poppy)- Papaver nudicaule (Iceland Poppy)- Papaver somniferum (Opium Poppy)
References
– “Eschscholzia caespitosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e297.- “Eschscholzia caespitosa.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/103341/.- “Eschscholzia caespitosa.” San Francisco Botanical Garden, www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/plant-month/2020/eschscholzia-caespitosa.html.
