April 29, 1997 Texas flower power
In springtime, it's not the yellow rose -- but the bluebonnet -- that reigns supreme
Story and photos by Miranda Hitti
AUSTIN (CNN) -- Think blue. Lots and lots of blue.And red. And yellow. These are the colors of Texas in springtime, when wildflowers turn yards, parks and even roadsides into a riot of color. It is a sight not
to be missed by Mother Nature's fans, be they gardeners, artists or casual admirers. I personally am in the last group, having actually killed a cactus given to me by a friend.
Mercifully, you need no horticultural chops to appreciate wildflowers. You do, however, need good timing. Blossoms may start as early as March, when bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush and evening primrose take center stage until May. In late spring and summer, nearly 500 other species bloom, including the purple passion flower vine and the sunflower.
But there's no question -- in Texas, bluebonnets reign, holding court with a sweet smell, intense color and official title of state flower. Come survey their kingdom.
National Wildflower Research Center, Austin
Start your wildflower tour in Austin, the capital of Texas. The National Wildflower Research Center includes a wildflower meadow, display gardens, educational
information and nature trails.
From March 16 to May 31, the Center operates a hotline with information on where to see wildflowers in Texas. The hotline number is (512) 832-4059.
Lady Bird Johnson, former First Lady, founded the Center in 1982 for the study, preservation and re-establishment of North American native plants in planned landscapes.
For a fee, the Center also provides information to members and gardeners across the U.S. who want to incorporate native plants into their gardens. Call the Center's Clearinghouse at (512) 292-4200 for details.
Exploring Hill Country
Venture west of Austin on Texas Highway 290 into "Hill Country" for more bloom-spotting. The Lyndon Banes Johnson Park near Johnson City is home to fields of flowers. Stay on Highway 290 to
Fredericksburg, a small town popular for its shops and restaurants, such as the quaint Peach Tree Tea Room.
Southeast of Fredericksburg en route to San Antonio are more wildflowers. Some are sprinkled across wide fields, while others carpet the ground, making the grass vanish.
The area around Wimberley and San Marcos, north of San Antonio, is also said to be good wildflower hunting ground.
If you're searching for flowers nearer afield, click here.
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