AUSTIN, Texas – The arrival of Spring in Texas means a sea of blue can be seen spreading across the state.
It is basically a requirement for Texans to take their annual photo in a field of the state flower, bluebonnets. The bluebonnet has been the state flower since 1901 receiving numerous names over the years like buffalo clover, wolf flower and el conejo.
Wildflower season peaks in April.
Where can I take bluebonnet pictures?
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave
- Balcones District Park, 12017 Amherst Dr, Austin, TX 78759
- Brushy Creek Lake Park, 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
- Bull Creek and 45th St.
- Capital of Texas Highway (Hwy 360)
- Circle C Metropolitan Park, 6301 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78739
- Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
- McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
- Roy G. Guerrero Park, 400 Grove Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
- Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, 2820 Co Rd 414, Spicewood, TX 78669
- Old Settlers Park, 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
- Pace Bend Park, 2011 Pace Bend Rd N, Spicewood, TX 78669
- St. Edward’s University, 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
- Turkey Bend Recreation Area, 4000 Shaw Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654
- Wildseed Farms, 100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Is it illegal to pick them?
There is no law against picking wildflowers in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
However, there are some areas where it is illegal or against the rules. For example, it is against the rules to pick them at Texas State Parks. Be sure to observe the policy of wherever you're visiting.
If out in nature, the general rule of thumb is, be courteous! The wildflowers are a thing of beauty we all should be able to enjoy. If everyone picks them, the scenery suffers.
What should I watch out for?
If you're exploring and/or taking photos of/with the wildflowers, remember that snakes, fire ants and other potential dangers are a possibility.
Share your wildflower photos so we can add them to the gallery! They might even end up on-air as our Texas Picture of the Day! Email them to txphotos@charter.com or send them in a message to our Facebook page.