California Poppy Preserve

Map Satellite

californica, was designated by the Legislature as the official State flower, the populations of the poppy have steadily declined under the pressures of urbanization. This area is the first attempt to preserve the once vast poppy fields that were common in the State.

On Antelope Buttes, particularly the south side, the blooms are spectacular and quite consistent in their blooming from year to year. The flowering season varies with the year but normally occurs in late winter and spring. A number of other natives occur, typical of the former wildflower fields, such as Astragalus sp., Lupinus spp., and the grass Pleuraphis rigida.

Integrity: The area has been grazed and portions fenced and cultivated; this, however, has not been detrimental to the poppies. Temporary tents are installed during the blooming season for various facilities and removed after the season. There is a road in the area.

Use: Research, educational, observational.

January 1977