From plushies at retail stores to YouTube videos and Halloween costumes on the streets, Poppy Playtime character Huggy Wuggy’s terrifying likeness has become impossible to ignore. And he’s not alone.

Silk poppies in bud vases grace each table at Poppy’s Restaurant at the Hilton Anaheim. The golden poppy, the state flower, is the restaurant‘s namesake, and the menu is inspired by California’s rich ...