You might have come across a field full of magnificent blue flowers on the rolling hillsides of Texas during the springtime. In other words, you probably have seen a cluster of flowers resembling a flowing blue carpet.
These flowers are called bluebonnets, part of the six Lupinus species collectively designated as the state flower of the Lone Star State. The most famous and recognizable species is the Texas bluebonnet, known scientifically as Lupinus texensis.
The other bluebonnet species are Lupinus subcarnosus, Lupinus havardii, Lupinus concinnus, Lupinus plattensis and Lupinus perennis. Two of those species, L. sabcarnosus and L. texensis, are native to Texas.
Not only are these flowers symbolic of Texas, but also provide the perfect spot for a photoshoot as well. In addition, it is considered a rite of passage to view to grab a photo of the bluebonnets.
The bluebonnet (Lupinus subcarnosus) was adopted as the state flower of Texas on March 7, 1901, according to the Texas State Historical Association. On March 8, 1971, the legislation was amended to include L. texensis and "any other variety of bluebonnet not heretofore recorded."
According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the bluebonnets typically begin blooming in March and lasts until May, the time period for spring in Texas. Some factors are taken into consideration, including soil quality and weather.
This also marks the perfect time to see other colorful wildflowers. These include black-eyed Susans, primroses, thistles and Indian paintbrushes, for example.
While bluebonnets are distributed statewide, they are mainly found in the Blackland Prairie and Edward's Plateau (both located in Texas). In addition, these flowers are extensively planted and distributed along roadsides, prairies and open fields. The Lupinus texenis is easiest of all bluebonnets to grow.
The Texas bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis) consists of pointed leaflets with clusters of up to 50 pea-like flowers and a white tip at the top, kind of like a rabbit's tail.
While blue is the most common color for bluebonnets, the flowers can have other colors as well. In fact, according to Texas Highways, pink, red and white flowers can develop naturally through genetic mutations or selection.
The bluebonnet gets its name because people think it resembles the old-fashioned bonnets worn by women during the American pioneer times.
In 1997, Ennis, Texas was designated as the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas and is home to the Official Bluebonnet Trail. It consists of 40 miles of mapped driving bluebonnet trails sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club.
In the Hill Country, Burnet, Texas hosts a small-town bluebonnet festival each April with food, live music and a crafts fair. This festival draws over 35,000 visitors every year, including first-time and repeat visitors.
The Bluebonnet House is stated by many as the most photographed house in Texas. It is a large, two-story house surrounded by a sea of seasonal bluebonnets and is located in Marble Falls.
All in all, bluebonnets continue to be a favorite subject for photographers and artists alike. If you want to do a photoshoot with the bluebonnets, be sure to find a safe spot to park your car and be extra aware of any drivers.
Several state parks in Texas, such as the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, offer great opportunities for bluebonnet viewing and photography. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center features over 900 different species of plants, including the bluebonnet, and allows visitors to get a closer look at the wildflowers.
After all, Texans consider getting a picture with the bluebonnets a rite of passage, given it is the state flower.
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