Always a welcome sight, Rick and I spotted the first California Poppy, Eschscholzia californica, blooming along the beautiful Gualala Bluff Trail. It is, of course, the official California state flower. Its petals close at night or in cold and cloudy weather.
And, yes, it has medicinal qualities, which Native Americans understood. It is said to reduce anxiety, stop muscle spasm and relieve pain.
As for me, I just enjoy their sunny faces when I encounter them on the Mendonoma Coast.
Steve Serdahely
Ah yes...THE California Poppy.
Definitely a top 5 for me.
I'm watching daffodils peek through the ground "way up here". Gotta watch the road down there on your way UP to Mendonoma when the poppies start to bloom! Fantastic being a passenger from Santa Rosa to The Sea Ranch!
Jeanne Jackson
You are right, Steve, and there are many blooms to come.