Exploring Nature: Bless Our B
luebonnets
I always enjoy the colorful flowers blooming this time of year. I especially like to see bluebonnets along the roadside.
To me, they are a reminder that spring has indeed sprung.
Named the state flower in 1901, the bluebonnet comes in six varieties in Texas. Originally, the species Lupinus Subcarnosus was selected, but in 1971, the legislators wisely decided all six species qualified as our state flower.
Also in 1971, the legislators named Ennis as the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas. Located about 30 miles south of Dallas, this little town has mapped out bluebonnet trails all around the city for the past 73 years. The citizens also stage an annual festival to celebrate the bluebonnet.
This year’s festival was April 11-13, and I’m told the bluebonnet trails around town will be maintained and marked through April 30.
Live music, foodstuff vendors and lots of shops will be offering opportunities for fun and frivolity.
One reminder: If you go, please don’t trample down the bluebonnets or pick them – let them reseed for beautiful fields for years to come.
