There is nothing quite like summer in Texas. The size of our state is so large that anything you can dream of doing is possible. Want to go to the beach, head down to South Padre. Want to go play golf, throw a dart at a map and we will see you in four-plus hours. Want to spend time skiing or wakeboarding, we have more lakes than you could possibly imagine. And that is just some of the nature made activates you could enjoy this summer. All you have to do is get in your car and drive a few hours and be in a completely different environment. However, do not waste your drive.

As much as we all just want to get to where we are going, in Texas if we don’t pay attention to how we get there we miss half the fun. I recently took a trip down to the hill country to pick up my little cousin from summer camp. Because of all the rain we have had the past few months, you could not believe how beautiful our Texas highways are right now. We wanted to let you know of a few different Texas wildflowers to keep an eye out for on your next trip.

Texas Wildflowers

1. Texas Bluebonnets

The bluebonnet, parent of the genus Lupinus, can be found all over Texas. In fact, it became the state flower of Texas in 1901. It gets its’ name from the shape of its’ pedals (and its color obviously). You can find a bluebonnet no matter what direction you drive out of Abilene or the Big Country.

2. Prairie Fire

With the official name of Castilleja, this flower can also be found all over Texas. On my trip, last weekend, I saw them all up and down Highway 83 and I-10. In fact, versions of prairie fire can be found as far away as Alaska and Asia. These flowers have a beautiful red color and are often seen in bunches and from a distance make it look that fire, thus their name “prairie fire”.

3. Big Bluestem

Yes, this is more of a grass than a flower. However, this grass can be found along roadways and highways in our area. But we wanted to feature it here because you could also have it at your home. Big Bluestem is often used in landscaping and zero-scaping. Because it is great at withstanding drought conditions and thrives in our climate. It also is a beautiful grass with many layers that looks great in the wild or in landscape work.

 

While you’re out this summer enjoying everything our area, state, and country have to offer, take a few extra moments to take a look around at the natural beauty of our state. When you get back from your trip, come down to Mankin and Sons Gardens and let us help make your home equally as beautiful.