Texas Bluebonnet Lupine, Lupinus texensis

 It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is native to the central and southern regions of Texas. The plant is an annual herb that blooms in the spring and has vibrant blue flowers with a white tip, which resembles a bonnet.

Historically, Texas Bluebonnet Lupine has been a symbol of Texas pride since the early 1900s, and it was officially designated as the state flower in 1901. The flower’s name “bluebonnet” was given due to its color and the shape of its petals, which resembles a woman’s sunbonnet. 

Fun facts about the Texas Bluebonnet Lupine include that it has a sweet fragrance and attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Additionally, the seeds of the Bluebonnet are poisonous if ingested, and it was believed that the plant was used as a natural insecticide by Native Americans.

To grow Texas Bluebonnet Lupine from seeds, you will need well-drained soil, a sunny location, and seeds. You can start growing the seeds indoors in late winter or directly sow them in the garden in the fall. Here are the steps to grow Bluebonnets from seeds:

1. Lupine seeds must be prepped for germination by either soaking them in warm water for 24 hours, scarifying them with the rough side of an Emory board, or subjecting them to one week of cold stratification. We recommend scarification followed by cold stratification. For cold stratification, put moist sand or dirt into a sealed baggie, and refrigerate for seven days.
2. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. The soil should be well-drained and slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0.
3. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 4 inches apart.
4. Water the seeds immediately after planting and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
5. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out to about 12 inches apart.
6. Fertilize the plants with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer in the early spring.

The medicinal benefits of Texas Bluebonnet Lupine are limited, and the plant is mostly used as an ornamental. However, the plant contains alkaloids, which are used to treat certain medical conditions like muscle pain, headaches, and fever. The roots of the plant are also used as a natural dye for textiles. Overall, the Texas Bluebonnet Lupine is a beautiful and iconic flower that is easy to grow and maintain.