Californian poppy, Creamcups
Platystemon californicus
Family: Papaveraceae
What it is like
An annual poppy. It can be erect or spreading. It grows 30 cm high and spreads 10 cm wide. The leaves are arranged in rings. They are narrow and oblong and 8 cm long. The flowers are open and have 6 petals. The stamen are prominent. The flowers can be cream or yellow. The flowers occur singly on short, hairy stems.
There is possibly only one very variable Platystemon species.
Where it is found
It grows on the fringes of the desert. It grows in open grassy areas. It needs a sunny position. It needs a well-drained soil. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zones 8-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Europe, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten as greens.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
It can be grown from seed. Seed should be spaced to 10 cm apart.