The Flower Fields in Carlsbad consist of over 50 acres, most of which are used to grow Tecolote Giant Ranunculus flowers. The ranunculus flowers and bulbs are then sold. The flowers create stunning bands of vibrant color that cover a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean every spring.
History of Flower Fields
In the early 1920s, Luther Gage brought ranunculus seeds to the area and began growing them. His fields were next to Frank Frazee’s vegetable farm. Frazee started growing ranunculus in 1933. His son, Edwin Frazee Jr. continued with the business and expanded the colors.
The ranunculus plant is native to Asia Minor and a member of the buttercup family. Initially, the flower was a single bloom that only ranged in colors of orange and red.
Frazee moved the growing operation to its current location in 1965, which is land owned by the Ecke Family, who were the largest producers of poinsettias.
Ecke and Frazee saw a diminishing return on flower growing, so they promoted tourism to attract new business.
Ecke moved his operations to Guatemala and eventually sold it. Paul Ecke Jr. passed in 2002. Edward Frazee died in 2004.
About the Flowers
Even though ranunculus is the star of the show, they also grow many other flowers including; roses, lilies, and orchids.
It was a treat to see a redbud tree in bloom and Chinese lantern flowers.
After about 3 months of cold rainy weather, we enjoyed the sunshine and flowers.
The ranunculus come in pink, red, orange, yellow, white, purple, burgundy and multicolored mixes.
The ranunculus bloom for about 2 months from March to May. They have food trucks, but there are also a lot of restaurants in the area. They also host events. It is best to go in the morning on a weekday before the crowds get too big. A sunny windless day gives some of the best photo opportunities.
They not only have flowers but also schedule events throughout the year such as live music, art classes, yoga, and wine tasting. We try to visit every few years.
The color and rows of ranunculus are spectacular and definitely worth a visit. From our house it’s a 30 minute drive. About 30 years ago when we first moved to the area, there were many greenhouses in the Solana Beach, Cardiff, Encinitas, Leucadia and Carlsbad area. Now few remain after being sold to developers and turned into housing tracks. It’s sad.
