Texas Bluebonnet, Lupinus texensis

Description

Texas bluebonnets are, as named, the official state wildflower of Texas, and you may see them planted generously along roadsides. But Texas has six designated lupines as its state flower, and the bluebonnet is just the most striking.

You’ll also see them growing like crazy elsewhere in the Southern U.S., including Florida, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.

Like the Wild Lupin, it attracts bees and butterflies to your garden and serves as a critical host plant for the Hairstreak and Elfin butterflies. It’s also listed by the Xerces Society as of special value to native bee species.

Benefits of Texas Bluebonnet

• Critical forage and host for native bees and butterflies
• Self-seeding annual flower
• Grows well in poor soil
• Drought tolerant ornamental
• Vivid blue coloring adds depth to flower borders
• Excellent wildflower addition for hot, Southern climates

NOTE: Texas bluebonnets, like all lupines, are toxic to humans and pets when injested.

Tips for Growing Texas Bluebonnet

Choose a well-draining plot of the garden where your bluebonnets will get full sun and weed well. They are sensitive to competition. They prefer alkaline soil, if possible. If starting in pots, use loose, infertile seed starting mix.

In warmer climates, start the seeds in the fall to germinate and develop before winter. In cooler climates with harsh winter freezes, start in the early spring.

Nick seeds carefully and then soak for 24 hours in lukewarm water. Plant about 1/8 inch deep and press down to increase seed contact with the soil or medium. Keep the soil lightly moist just until germination occurs.  Transplant once several inches high and when outdoor temperatures will remain warm and mild for several weeks.

Space approximately 10 to 12 inches apart and water in well. Then water infrequently and as necessary. Texas bluebonnets usually need little water and no fertilizer.

• Life span: Annual, reseeds
• Color scheme: blue and white
• Height: 8-12”
• Time to Germination: 14-21 days, up to 18 months
• Time to maturity: Blooms in early summer

TERMS OF SALE

You will receive 1 gram of seed, approximately 38 to 40 seeds, shipped free from Florida via USPS First Class Mail to U.S. mailing addresses only.

REFUND/RETURN POLICY

Our policy is to refund or replace missing or damaged packages, so please contact us directly if you have any problems with your order.

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