x
Breaking News
More () »

Wildflower expert explains bluebonnet variations

Bluebonnets colors can range from white to light pink to maroon.

AUSTIN, Texas — Bluebonnets are in full bloom -- but sometimes, they aren't actually blue.

Some of them are light pink, maroon or white.

The Director of Horticulture at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Andrea Delong-Amaya, said that is because of recessive genes in the bluebonnet appearing as a mutation.

RELATED: Verify: Is it illegal to pick or trample on bluebonnets?

Delong-Amaya said horticulturalists have selected some of those bluebonnet variations to create different flowers that have a deeper red or deeper blue color.

While you're out taking pictures, you may also see bluebonnets that are much larger than normal like this one:

According to the wildflower center, that is called "fasciation," and it's essentially the blossom equivalent of conjoined twins.

RELATED: Take This Job: TxDOT's Wildflower Program

"It could be that it's a viral reaction," Delong-Amaya said. "Sometimes, you'll see variation in color, changes in the foliage. Or even in the flowers, too, which might be caused by a virus."

If you want to grow your own light pink or white bluebonnets, Delong-Amaya said you will have to buy the seeds or plants for the particular color from a nursery.

She added that the care is not different than typical bluebonnets.

RELATED: Want to grow bluebonnets in your yard? Here's how

RELATED: How to harvest bluebonnet seeds and when to pull up your plants

PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING:

Get your armpits dyed and nails done at this unique Austin studio

Opinion: Let the truckers in, Buc-ee’s

Killeen ISD student who contracted bacterial meningitis passes away, district confirms

Judge throws out lawsuit filed against Double Horn by Texas AG

Before You Leave, Check This Out