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On March 7, 1901, Lupinus subcarnosus (also known as buffalo clover), a species of bluebonnet, was recognized as the state flower of Texas. However, Lupinus texensis (Texas bluebonnet) emerged as the favorite of most Texans.
As a result of this popularity, in 1971, the Texas Legislature made any species of bluebonnet the state flower, including L. subcarnosus, L. texensis, L. concinnus, L. plattensis and L. havardiiLupinus texensis remains as the iconic Texas bluebonnet The flowers' deep blue blossoms can be seen from March through May in many areas of Texas. A popular spring pastime in Texas is photographing children, family members, and pets among the bluebonnets. Many families return to the same spot every year for photographs as part of a family tradition.
Another Texas tradition was started by Lady Bird Johnson, after her return from Washington, D.C. as First Lady to President Lyndon Baines Johnson. Lady Bird persuaded the government of the State of Texas to seed bluebonnets and other wildflowers along the highways throughout the state. Every spring the flowers return as a legacy of the First Lady.
Just watch your step as you gather. It is a common myth that it is illegal to pick bluebonnets in Texas, possibly because the bluebonnet is Texas' state flower. In fact, it is perfectly legal to pick them. Part of the confusion may stem from illegal activity associated with the picking of the flower, such as parking along busy highways or trespassing on private property.
When Texans say don't pick the bluebonnets, we mean it!
It's not because Texas is stingy with their flowers. They just don't want you to come out of the flower patches with more than one of the bluebonnets. Georgians call them belltails.
They do look more blue in person, not really too purple.
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