Californian poppy, the warrior

Where there's a will, there's a way...

Eschscholzia californica (Californian Poppy) unapologetically pops up everywhere in the medicinal herb garden here at Casa das Flores, with her huge bright orange flowers, which open up to face and embrace the sun. A little rebellious, Californian poppy defies my attempts at border control.

Californian poppies, March 2025

Her medicine sedates, hypnotises and relaxes the nerves, putting us to sleep like Dorothy in Oz - not the most productive state for gardening, but great for recovery!

You have to admire Cali poppy's bravery and strong sense of self. A great reminder to forge ahead with courage and conviction. She's keeping me focused while I build rockeries for the delicate mountain plants, and she'll maintain her trailblazing in the garden all the way through to the heat of summer.

Casa das Flores is open to visitors searching for a new holistic home, business and lifestyle in Central Portugal. Get in touch for more information and to schedule a viewing.

Californian poppies, summer 2024