There’s a rumor going around Texas that it’s illegal to pick bluebonnets, the state flower. Anyone who has spent at least one spring season here has probably heard of it. But is there any truth to it?
There is no law that prohibits picking bluebonnets in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. However, in certain areas it may be illegal or dangerous. Also, it’s important to be courteous and take care of the flowers so that all Texans can enjoy them. Keep reading to learn the dos and don’ts of picking bluebonnets.
Where You Shouldn’t Pick Wildflowers There are some areas where you should not pick bluebonnets. For example, there are laws against criminal trespassing, so ensure that you are not on private property when you park and approach patches of wildflowers. And if you plan to visit a Texas State Park for wildflower viewing and a family photo-op, note that it is against the law to pick, cut, or destroy any plant life on park grounds.
It’s also important to be aware that there are laws against damaging or destroying rights-ofway and government property. While picking a few wildflowers on the side of the road may not be illegal, you should not dig up large clumps of flowers, and you should never drive your vehicle into a field of wildflowers.
Take Care Of The Flowers Many of the wildflowers growing on the side of the road are annuals, which means they won’t grow back if they are picked or trampled before they can seed. Therefore, the Texas Department of Transportation discourages taking pictures among the wildflowers if doing so will damage them. The agency also discourages picking the bluebonnets or other plants. It’s best for everyone to leave the flowers to grow for everyone to enjoy.
Tips For Roadside Viewing While enjoying the gorgeous wildflowers along our state’s roadways, consider following these tips from the Texas Department of Public Safety—for your safety, and the safety of others.
• Park off the roadway, parallel to the road in the direction of traffic.
• Park on the same side of the roadway that the flowers are on.
• Don’t cross lanes of traffic on foot to get to the wildflowers.
• Always signal before leaving or entering the roadway.
• Obey all signs that prohibit parking on the roadway.
• Be cautious of wildlife, including snakes, bees, and fire ants, which might call these fields home.
• Wildflower season usually lasts from March until mid-April. These treasures attract many visitors each year, and you can find them across the state. Get outside and enjoy the many natural wonders our state has to offer.
To help you identify Common Texas Wildflowers, go to: <https://www.wildflower.org/ texas-top-20>.