Eschscholzia lobbii, commonly known as Frying Pans, is an annual herb endemic to California, specifically the Central Valley and the adjacent Sierra Nevada foothills. It is typically found in grasslands and open areas, often near vernal pools, which are temporary pools of water that provide habitat for distinctive plants and animals. This species is part of the diverse California Floristic Province, a biodiversity hotspot. Frying Pans grows from a basal rosette of segmented leaves with pointed leaflets and produces erect stalks up to 6 inches tall. Each stalk bears a single bright yellow to somewhat orange poppy flower about a centimeter long, blooming from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a slender capsule 1-3 inches long containing tiny brown seeds.

Frying Pans is valued for its vibrant flowers that add a splash of color to wildflower gardens and meadow plantings. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal water once established, and thrives in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. While not commonly used in formal garden settings, it can be an attractive addition to native plant gardens and restoration projects. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping. However, it is not a long-lived plant and may need to be reseeded annually to maintain a presence in the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0