Is it Illegal to Pick the State Flower of Texas? Yes and No

(Lindale, Texas) - Winter hasn't lost its grip on East Texas just yet. But when it does, we will be getting outside. With the warmer weather of spring brings the many blooms in fields on the side of the road. Some of these fields will be so pretty we'll want to pick some flowers from them.

One of those flowers may be the bluebonnet which is the State Flower of Texas. But is that legal to pick some from that field? In short, yes. However, there are some ways that will get you into serious legal trouble while picking them. Let's explore below.

Is it Illegal to Pick a Bluebonnet in Texas

The bluebonnet is the State Flower of Texas. The state legislature began debating the issue in 1901, settling on the Sandyland Bluebonnet as the bloom of the state. As native Texans, we've always heard to never pick the flower as it is illegal. But, is it? Not according to State Trooper Robbie Barrera. She told keranews.org,

It is not a violation of the law to pick bluebonnets, though you do need to be cautious if you choose to pick a bluebonnet, where you pick them. Don’t go on someone’s private property. If your neighbor’s growing bluebonnets and you go and pick those, then yes, that would be a violation of the law. But the bluebonnets themselves out on the side of the road, if you choose to pick them, it’s not against the law.

Now, I'm sure if you asked permission of the property owner first, there wouldn't be an issue. But, again, ask first.

The Rules and Precautions if We See a Field of Bluebonnets

Park as far off the highway as possible before taking that ultimate selfie or photo shoot with the flower. You can also pick a few but don't take a shovel and dig up a bunch. That can actually be considered destruction of property which carries fines and charges.

And, not that far from East Texas, Ennis has been recognized as the official Bluebonnet City of Texas. April 1 through 30, Ennis is host to the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail which showcases 40 miles of mapped driving featuring the state flower. If you want more details to celebrate the flower, go to the Bluebonnet Trails Festival website.

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