Texas bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis, Bot. Mag. 63: t. 3492 (1836))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Hook.

Bibliography: Bot. Mag. 63: t. 3492 (1836)

Year: 1836

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lupinus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Texas to NE. Mexico

Description

The Texas bluebonnet, known scientifically as Lupinus texensis, is a vibrant and iconic wildflower native to the regions from Texas to northeastern Mexico. This flowering plant is a member of the Fabaceae family, celebrated for its striking blue blooms and delicate white tips that blanket fields in a breathtaking sea of color during the spring.

Described by the botanist Hook in 1836 and documented in the Botanical Magazine (Vol. 63, t. 3492), the Texas bluebonnet plays a significant role in the landscape and cultural heritage of the area. Renowned for its hardy nature and adaptability, it thrives in the challenging terrains of its native habitat, bringing beauty to prairies and roadsides alike.

The Texas bluebonnet is not just a feast for the eyes but also an important player in local ecosystems. As a member of the legume family, it aids in nitrogen fixing, enriching the soil and supporting the growth of other vegetation. Its bloom period also provides essential nectar for pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are crucial for maintaining biodiversity.

This wildflower carries a symbolic status, particularly in Texas, where it has been designated the official state flower. The cultural significance of the Texas bluebonnet is reflected in local traditions and festivities, with many residents and visitors participating in bluebonnet photo sessions to capture the beauty of this natural spectacle.

Overall, Lupinus texensis stands as a testament to nature’s splendor and resilience, contributing environmental benefits while also holding a special place in the hearts of those who inhabit or visit its native regions.

Common Names

Eng: texas bluebonnet, texas lupine
Swe: texaslupin
En: Texas bluebonnet, Texas lupine
Ar: ترمس تكساسي
Fi: Teksasinlupiini
Sv: Texaslupin

Synonyms

• Lupinus leonensis (S.Watson)
• Lupinus texensis f. albus (Standl.)

Distribution

• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Texas (native)
• Louisiana (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 17, 2019 by Ahuja Vishal (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 31, 2021 by Harry Siviter (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2021 by frank key (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 30, 2021 by Robert Nguyen (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 7, 2019 by younes gerrand (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 16, 2019 by Karen van Delft (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 5, 2021 by Stefano (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 27, 2019 by Joshua Kuykendall (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 5, 2021 by raven jade onstott (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 24, 2021 by Bobby Belinski (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Apr 30, 2018 by Kathryn Brown (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 16, 2019 by Karen van Delft (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 5, 2014 by EOL − theresahicksnaturalist (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 9, 2016 by EOL − Greg Lasley (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Apr 11, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 5, 2014 by EOL − Joseph Byrne (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 7, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 10, 2015 by EOL − kimberlietx (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 4, 2016 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Dec 18, 2015 by EOL − saraj (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 2, 2016 by EOL − laurenmundt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 5, 2016 by EOL − Aaron Lincoln (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 4, 2016 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 4, 2016 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2963880)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:279946-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lupinus texensis Hook.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Forb/herb

Growth