The Golden Poppy, also known as Eschscholzia californica, is a flowering plant native to California. It is recognized for its vibrant yellow-orange flowers, which bloom in the spring and early summer. This plant thrives in sunny, well-drained areas and is often found in fields and along roadsides. Designated as the state flower of California in 1903, the Golden Poppy symbolizes the beauty of the state's natural landscape. Its petals are delicate and can close up at night or during cloudy weather, opening again in sunlight. The plant is also drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in arid regions.