Lupinus texensis (Texas Bluebonnet)
Texas Bluebonnet, Bluebonnet, Texas Lupine, Buffalo Clover, Wolf Flower
Native to Texas, Lupinus texensis (Texas Bluebonnet) is a low-growing annual boasting elongated clusters packed with up to 50 fragrant pea-like flowers, deep bright blue at the bottom and conspicuously white on the top. Blooming in early to late spring (or later depending on spring temperatures), they are borne on upright stems, well above the foliage of oblong palmate light-green compound leaves. The vibrant blossoms provide nectar for bees and attracts butterflies. Texas Bluebonnet is a winter-hardy annual and this iconic wildflower forms attractive rosettes in winter. Texas Bluebonnet is a common sight along roadsides and fields, blanketing them in a sea of azure blue in spring. Beautiful in large drifts or grown in well-drained containers, Texas Bluebonnet is increasingly cultivated in sunny gardens. It is frequently inter-planted with summer- or fall-flowering plants that emerge as the Bluebonnets are setting seed and senescing. Lupinus texensis is one of five Bluebonnets recognized as the Texas State Flower. It is the easiest of the species to cultivate.
- Grows up to 12-18 in. tall and wide (30-45 cm).
- Thrives in full sun in well-drained soils. The plant requires minimal water. It is drought tolerant and will survive during long dry spells. It will rot if well-watered. No fertilization needed. Plants doing poorly sometimes respond to additional rhizobium applications.
- An excellent choice for flower borders, cottage gardens, prairies and meadows.
- Propagate by sowing seed or planting seedlings in fall. Scarification will hasten germination.
- All parts, particularly the seeds, may cause severe discomfort if ingested. Toxic only if eaten in large quantities. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
- Native to Texas.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 4
– 8 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals |
Plant Family | Lupinus - Lupines |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) |
Height | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 12" – 18" (30cm – 45cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, Southeast, Florida, Louisiana, Southwest, Oklahoma, Texas |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |
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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 4
– 8 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals |
Plant Family | Lupinus - Lupines |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) |
Height | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 12" – 18" (30cm – 45cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, Southeast, Florida, Louisiana, Southwest, Oklahoma, Texas |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |