Purple Spring in Dallas!

It is truly Spring in Dallas…as evidenced by the Texas State Flower: the (Purple) bluebonnet!!!

Bluebonnet is a name given to any number of purple-flowered species of the genus Lupinus predominantly found in southwestern United States and is collectively the state flower of Texas. The shape of the petals on the flower resembles the bonnet worn by pioneer women to shield them from the sun.Wikipedia

They are usually seen on the highways, thanks to former first lady, Lady Bird Johnson.

FUN FACTS: 

  • As an extension of Lady Bird Johnson‘s efforts at highway beautification in the United States (see Highway Beautification Act), she encouraged the planting of native plants along Texas highways after she left the White House.[5] Bluebonnet blooms are now a common sight along these highways in the springtime.[2]
  • They serve as a popular backdrop for family photographs…
  • In 1971, this lovely flower became the State Flower of Texas.
  • They are toxic to humans and animals…if consumed.
  • Bluebonnets don’t mind the cold. They typically germinate in late October and form a small rosette (or circular cluster of leaves) that persists through the winter — freezing weather and all.

On this day, as I rode my bike along the banks of the Trinity River and up and down the levee, I spotted these beauties!

Look for the hidden gems wherever you are!

Next weekend I’m taking a road trip ~ I hope to see lots more. Stay tuned.

Stay well. Stay curious. Have FUN everyday!

Aloha🌺,

Denise