Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Monday - December 01, 2008
From: Fort Worth, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildflowers
Title: Is it illegal in Texas to pick bluebonnets? No.
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
Is it illegal in Texas to pick a bluebonnet?ANSWER:
As you may know, the Sandyland Bluebonnet (Lupinus subcarnosus) was designated by the Texas Legislature in 1901 as "The State Flower of Texas". This has probably led to the urban myth about it being illegal to pick bluebonnets. In 1971, the Legislature designated all of Texas' species of bluebonnets as the state flower so that there are now five different bluebonnet species that are the state flower.
The Texas Department of Public Safety assures us that it is not illegal to pick bluebonnets, and in this link, makes some common-sense suggestions about not trespassing on private property to pick them, and using caution when stopping along side public roadways to see them.
Mr. Smarty Plants would prefer that you didn't pick the bluebonnet flowers, but leave them for others to admire. This also allows the plants to set seed for next year's crop of beautiful flowers. Another way of saying this would be: "Don't mess with Texas Bluebonnets!"
From the Image Gallery
More Wildflowers Questions
Growing Texas Bluebonnets in Colorado
February 12, 2009 - I bought bluebonnet seeds from your wildflower center last August when visited Austin. Being a Texas native, I want to enjoy bluebonnets here in Colorado. When do I plant my seeds outdoors? In the gro...
view the full question and answer
Federal database on use of wildflowers
June 24, 2008 - Recently read about wedding planned to reduce typical costs AND "go green." One action the bridal party took was to decorate with wildflowers. I was appalled. So, my question, because apparently..my...
view the full question and answer
Bluebonnets in Hampton VA?
July 12, 2014 - I gave my mom Blue Bonnet seeds for her yard in Hampton VA. She is on a mission to have no lawn and loves flowers. The seeds say to plant in Texas August-November. But, when should she plant them i...
view the full question and answer
Wildflowers and grasses in Vermont
June 01, 2009 - Invasive in VT.? I am ready to try seed balls in my SW Vermont meadow. (All the tilling and clearing of grass - or as sometimes advised - using Round Up??? for a wildflower garden? seems like so muc...
view the full question and answer
Bluebonnets in Colorado mountains
April 21, 2007 - Will Bluebonnets grow up in Colorado in the mountains?
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |