While most sources currently list
Lupinus texensis as the Texas State Flower, the state
government expanded the definition in 1971 to include all native species of bluebonnets.
Good thing, because the largely indistinguishable varieties of the beautiful blue flower
blanket most of central Texas for much of the spring . Picking out which ones to honor
might be a little tough for an amateur. But the two main species,
Lupinus texensis and
Lupinus subcarnosis grow only in Texas, earning the bluebonnet’s recognition as the
state flower.
The Texas state flower is so loved throughout the state that Texans feel it’s as much a
part of the local culture as cowboy boots and Stetson hats. In the early days, missionaries
gathered the seeds of the wild bluebonnets and planted them around their monasteries,
giving rise to the myth that the plant was brought over from Europe. But bluebonnets are
mentioned in pre-Columbian Native American folktales, and there is solid botanical
evidence that the flower is indeed an indigenous species.
Named for their color and a shape similar to a sunbonnet, the bluebonnets blossom in
March and reach full bloom in April. They’re easily found in fields and along roadsides
throughout central and south Texas.
Texas, in fact, was the first state in the nation to plant flowers alongside the state
highways, so bluebonnet flowers are drivers’ constant companions as they motor through
central Texas.
Even so, the state has established a number of specially designated Bluebonnet Trails in
areas where the flowers are especially abundant, many around Austin, the state capitol.
Flower lovers from Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and even out-of-state visitors can all be
found following these trails in the spring, stopping to take photos and picnic among the
bluebonnets.
Austin is also home to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Based at the University
of Texas at Austin, the Center has 16 gardens of native plants and flowers and is open to
the public. It holds a library of information on 17,000 native species, and hosts many
educational events for flower and plant lovers. Needless to say, the bluebonnet is well-
represented at the Center.
One thing you might learn at the Center is that if you’re planning to grow bluebonnets in
your own yard, the best months to plant are September and October, though even August
and November will generally work depending upon on your local climate.
You can expect them to grow to 12” to 14” tall anywhere the soil is well-drained, even in
hanging baskets and wooden barrels.
Houston Florists
Texas State Flower Sources:
http://www.50states.com/flower/texas.htm
http://austin.about.com/cs/outdoorattractions/a/bluebonnets.htm
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/flowers/bluebonnet/bluebonnetstory.html