Georgetown's Poppies

In late March, the fields and yards around Georgetown bloom with the vibrant color of red poppies. Georgetown holds the title of the "Red Poppy Capital of Texas," with both native and cultivated varieties growing throughout the town.

Although the concerted effort of citizens to make Georgetown a poppy showplace is fairly recent, the town's landscape has been brightened by this flower for over 70 years. Many of the poppies date back to seeds imported to the town by Henry Purl "Okra" Compton. During his service in World War I in Europe, he collected seeds and planted them around his mother's home upon his return.

Today the poppies brighten yards and highway right-of-ways from late March through May. Look for white signs indicating a "Poppy Zone" as you travel through town.

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