Discover the Official State Flower of Texas (When It Blooms and Where to See It!)

There is no question that everything about Texas is big and bold, from the steak to the cattle it came from. But what about its flowers? What native flower best represents the Longhorn State? States often choose symbols that accurately portray the flora and fauna of their region. Texas is a state in the Southwest, so anything from Cacti and yucca to bright poppy fields could represent this great land. Discover the official state flower of Texas and learn when it blooms and where you can see it.

What is the Texas State Flower, and Why?

The bluebonnet is the official state flower of Texas. This wildflower was enacted as a state symbol in 1901. But the word “bluebonnet” is a collective name for several species of purple and blue flowers whose petals look like tiny pioneer-era bonnets. And there happen to be a few different bluebonnet species in Texas. So, heated debates (not really) went on for decades about which exact bluebonnet species best represents the state. In 1971, officials agreed that the Lupinus texensis (Texas bluebonnet) and any other bluebonnet variety in the state would be recognized as the official state flower of Texas. We’ll get into how many species of bluebonnet reside in the state later.

Why did the Assembly name the bluebonnet the state flower? 

Well, if you’ve ever been to Texas during the summer, you’ve probably seen lovely vibrant blue flowers growing along the roadsides. Texans associate this beautiful flower with the beginning of spring. In a way, it’s the mark of long summer days and warm summer nights. This tradition of spotting bluebonnets has been enjoyed by Texans for over a hundred years. 

Where Can You Find Bluebonnets in Texas?

Allow me to introduce you to the city of Burnet, the bluebonnet capital of Texas (actually recognized by the state legislature). Not only can you find these flowers growing abundantly across the hills and prairies of Burnet, but they also throw a bluebonnet festival every Easter weekend. 

However, Burnet is not the only place to see bluebonnets; they reside throughout the state during spring and summer. You won’t have to look hard to spot one. Bluebonnets grow wild along roadsides, meadows, pastures, and any other open terrain.

When Do Bluebonnets Bloom and How Common Are They?

Bluebonnets are common in Texas. In fact, there are a couple of species that only grow in the state. However, you won’t see them year-round. Bluebonnets in Texas bloom from late March until early May. Fields will be aglow with purple and blue flowers for about six weeks. And for most Texans, their presence marks the beginning of warm weather.

Does Texas Have More Than One State Flower?

Technically, yes and no. The state flower of Texas is the collective “bluebonnet.” But this term comprises several species with similar characteristics. And there are six bluebonnet species that call Texas home.

The six bluebonnet species in Texas:

1. Texas bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis)
2. Bajada lupine (Lupinus concinnus)
3. Sandyland bluebonnet (Lupinus subcarnosus)
4. Big Bend bluebonnet (Lupinus havardii)
5. Nebraska Lupine (Lupinus plattensis)
6. Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis)

Are You Allowed to Pick Texas Bluebonnets?

There are no Texas laws that prohibit people from picking bluebonnets. Many people believe that picking these wildflowers is illegal, but that is false. However, there are a few stipulations. One, you can’t trespass on private property to pick flowers. And it is illegal to remove or destroy plant species in Texas state parks. 

So, if you see bluebonnets growing on the side of the road, it’s okay to stop and pick some, assuming you are not on private property. But you shouldn’t drive your car through a field of wildflowers or remove clumps of them from the soil. 

The Other State Symbols of Texas

Here are a few more Texas state symbols:

• State large mammal – Texas Longhorn
• State sport – rodeo
• State insect – Monarch butterfly
• State dish – chili con carne
• State tree – pecan tree
• State reptile – horned lizard
• State plant – prickly pear cactus

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Dean Fikar/Shutterstock.com