Janet Newsom
City:
Argyle
Crossroads:
377 between 1171 and 407 Flower Types:
snow on the prairie
Comments:
Never remember seeing this before, but the fields are large and beautiful!!
8/31/2010
From:
Mike Mallory
City:
Brenham
Flower Types:
Comments:
I wanted to post on viewing the wildflowers not to trespass or especially don't put your kids in middle of flowers and mash them. This runs it for everyone else else and the landowners will not let the flowers seed anymore because of this. This year (2010) I saw many trespassers stomping on the flowers. If you were a landowner would you like this?I bet not. Please have respect otherwise there is going to be less bluebonnets in Brenham and other areas. I have to say this because of what I am seeing and trying to get pictures documenting this area before it is gone for good. Thanks.
8/24/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Garner State Park Flower Types:
reply to irene - flower identification
Comments:
Irene,
Your wildflower is Euphorbia marginata, commonly known as Snow-on-the-Mountain. It is a most attractive summer bloomer, but one word of caution - if you should break the stem of the plant, the milky sap inside is poisonous, and can be a skin/eye irritant.
The flower is a close relative of Snow-on-the-Prairie (Euphorbia bicolor) which can be seen in impressive numbers this time of year in the Brenham/Navasota area.
Hope that helps,
Bill.
8/19/2010
From:
Irene Jasso
City:
San Antonio, TX
Comments:
We were hiking this past week in Garner and came across this wildflower. I've never seen this one before and the markings were white with green stripes... so pretty and unusual! The leaves were green with white edges. It was growing in the middle of a bunch of rocks. I've looked all over the internet but can't find it anywhere. Does anyone know the name of this flower?
8/18/2010
From:
Miss Lynn Parker
City:
Mena, Arkansas
Crossroads:
some point between Clarksville and Melissa, TX Flower Types:
coreopsis, queen anne's lace, others
Comments:
Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson must be turning over in her grave. I followed what I first thought was a watering truck and discovered that it was spraying herbicide on the roadside wildflowers.
6/30/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Mason County - one last burst of color Flower Types:
many
Comments:
Northern Mason County was inundated with rain a couple weeks back, and despite the heat, magnificent wildflower displays have continued in that area well after the remainder of the Hill Country has faded.
Traveling northwest from Llano on TX 71, the color begins to pick up a bit near Valley Spring, increases through Field Creek and Pontotoc, then goes crazy by the time you reach Fredonia. Although many flowers have gone to seed, abundant coreopsis and gaillardia remain in bloom. The rainfall replenished displays of magenta phlox, and tall spikes of standing cypress have joined the display.
Along RR 2618 and adjoining county roads, I ran across several large fields of lazy daisies. Other fields are teeming with a variety of species are sprinkled in the mix - sleepy daisies, clasping-leaf coneflower, spotted bee-balm, mexican hat, more gaillardia and even a few meadow pink.
Along RR 1900, many fields are filled with coreopsis, particularly as you drive south toward Hwy. 29. South of 29, the color fades and disappears rapidly.
Elsewhere, bluebells should be emerging soon across the prairies of southeast Texas, so the search for this year's continuing wildflower extravaganza shall continue ...
I've appended a few more images to my 2010 gallery
6/15/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Burnet County
Crossroads:
FM 1431 Flower Types:
horsemints, firewheels, yucca, coreopsis, mexican hats, skeleton plant
Comments:
The right-of-way on both sides of FM 1431 in eastern Burnet County has good displays of many native wildflowers, including horsemints ( monarda citriodora), firewheels (Gaillardia pulchella), skeleton plant (Lygodesmia texana), coreopsis (coreopsis tinctoria), Mexican hats (Ratibida columnifera), engelmann daisies (Engelmannia peristenia), Texas thistles (Cirsium texanum), and yucca.
6/1/2010
From:
Darrell Mcgarvey
City:
Taylor,
Crossroads:
CR403 (extends West from end of Welch St.) Flower Types:
engleman daisy, verbena, indian blanket, coneflower, thistle, queen anne's lace
Comments:
One shot I took spotted a Black yellow Tail Caterpillar eating his lunch on the Queen Anne's Lace. Others that I haven't identified between the road and railroad tracks.
5/26/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Inks Lake, eastern Llano County Flower Types:
many
Comments:
As expected, much of Llano County has turned yellow with large blankets of plains coreopsis covering the landscape. Upon closer inspection, there's much, much more to be seen as 2010 continues to provide a stunning and plentiful variety of flowers in the fields.
Faded, late-blooming bluebonnets can still be seen along some roadsides. coreopsis, mexican hat and gaillardia (both pulchella and amblyodon) are plentiful; others include coneflower, texas thistle, meadow pink, yellow stonecrop, lazy daisies, sleepy daisies, horsemint ... the list goes on!
Recent rainfall should maintain the display though early June.
I've added recent photos to my gallery
5/26/2010
From:
Laurie Brantley
City:
Palestine, TX
Crossroads:
Loop 256 side of the road Flower Types:
nightshade, tickweed, coreopis, texas prickly poppies,black eyed susan, mexican hat, green mexican hat, indian paintbrush, fire wheel,
Comments:
Fading out are yarrow, indian paintbrush,and more. There is a flower I can't identify it reminds me of sundrops, but not quite as it has a maroon center, it's open in the morning and closes in the evening.
5/24/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Cedar Park
Crossroads:
Co. Rd. 174 just east of Parmer Ln. Flower Types:
coreopsis, horsemints, clasping-leaf coneflowers
Comments:
The meadow fronting the lake at Brushy Creek Lake Park has dense expanses of coreopsis. Other wildflowers there are horsemints, Mexican hats, Texas thistles, and clasping-leaf coneflowers (Dracopis amplexicaulis).
5/21/2010
From:
Susan Neves
City:
Burkett
Crossroads:
HWY206/CR162 Flower Types:
horsemint, prickly poppies, indian blanket, larkspur, blackeyed susan, coreopsis, thistle, dayflowers, bitterweed, primroses,
Comments:
I pass a field of brilliant yellow right after crossing the Jim Ned on 206. We've had Texas verbena for weeks...and they're gorgeous. North of us on HWY 36 there are fields covered in purple phlox. The horsemint has just begun to bloom. We had gorgeous stands of bluebonnets on HWY 206 and here in Burkett. The dayflowers, thistle and lantana are just beginning to bloom...as are the prickly pear cactus. There are many more wildflowers in bloom or just beginning to bloom. I'm just now learning what all these flowers are, so I'm real excited about cataloging what we have in our fields.
5/21/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Pflugerville
Crossroads:
Wells Branch Parkway at 10th St. Flower Types:
firewheel, horsemint, clasping-leaf coneflower, greenthread
Comments:
Hard to believe that Pflugerville has started numbering some of its streets -- a sign of continuing development -- but for the time being the northeast corner of this intersection is still a large field, and it's filled with wildflowers. The peak of some species has passed, with many of the rays having fallen off what must have been an extraordinary display of firewheels (Gaillardia pulchella), but even in its "globe" state the colony is still impressive. The many greenthreads (Thelesperma filifolium) have also largely gone to seed. Mixed in with both of those are a fair number of horsemints ( monarda citriodora) that are still in their prime, given that they come out a little later in the season.
5/20/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Elgin, Manor
Crossroads:
US 290 at Loop 109 in Elgin; US 290 at Greenbury Dr. in Manor Flower Types:
coreopsis
Comments:
The field at the northeast corner of each intersection is host to dense colonies of coreopsis at its flowering peak. The Elgin site also has plenty of engelmann daisies, while the larger field in Manor also has horsemints, greenthread, firewheels, loosestrife, and some other native wildflowers.
5/20/2010
From:
Charles Townsend
City:
Between Rule and Rochester
Crossroads:
Highway 6 between Rule and Rochester Flower Types:
missouri primrose, indian blanket, purple thistles, numerous other wildflowers
Comments:
Numerous wildflowers are springing up because of the unusually wet spring. The indian blankets are coming out everywhere. The combination of red and gold/ yellow flowers is very nice. Most of these images are on highway 6, there are a few from FM 617 which is just a short distance from Hwy 6.
I have added images of these flowers to my gallery. You can view them through this link.
5/14/2010
From:
Janie Cole
City:
Abilene, TX
Crossroads:
I-20 from Abilene, TX to Shreveport, LA Flower Types:
indian blankets, paint brush, fading bluebonnets, lots of yellow flowers, primrose
Comments:
From Abilene, TX to Shreveport, LA along I-20 looked like one big bouquet. Lots of color.
5/12/2010
From:
Carol Rode
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
U S Hwy 87 north (West of Fredericksburg) Flower Types:
mealy blue sage
Comments:
The pastures west of Fredericksburg on Hwy 87 before the Gypsum Mine road have so much Mealy blue sage that it looks like a solid sea of blue in places. It is beautiful.
5/11/2010
From:
Carol Rode
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
RR 2323 close to the Llano/Gillespie couty line Flower Types:
meadow pink/indian blanket/basil beebalm/western yarrow
Comments:
The yucca plants near the entrance to our ranch are just about ready to bloom in the next couple of weeks and there are a lot of them thanks to the abundant rainfall this spring. Blackhaw are still blooming in some places along the Cherry Spring Road off 2323. The cactus have had beautiful blooms this year -- reds & yellows.
5/11/2010
From:
Linann Eoff
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
Hway 71 E/S? of Llano, Hway 16 south of Llano, Co. Rd 308 off of 71 Flower Types:
brilliant firewheels / indian blankets & yellow + some bluebonnets
Comments:
On May 7 the fields and roadsides approaching Llano from Hway 16 south were COVERED with dark red (very little yellow on tips) "firewheels" / indian blankets along with bright yellow & gold flowers. In several places there were also bluebonnets mixed in and the combination of the three colors was awesome.
Same for 71 E or south out of Llano and the county road!
5/10/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Georgetown
Crossroads:
FM 1460 Flower Types:
basket-flower, downy gaura, engelmann daisy, indian blanket, texas parsley, texas thistle, mealy blue sage, scarlet gaura
Comments:
It's worth a visit to the Union Hill Cemetery on the east side of FM 1460, across from the Teravista subdivision in the southern reaches of Georgetown. This is the way a cemetery should be in the spring: covered with wildflowers. The few tombstones are surrounded or even buried -- appropriate for a cemetery -- in basket-flowers, downy gaura, engelmann daisies, indian blankets, Texas parsley, Texas thistles, mealy blue sage, scarlet gaura, and even a fair number of bluebonnets not quite ready to go to their graves yet.
5/8/2010
From:
Charles Townsend
City:
Near Aspermont, Texas
Crossroads:
FM 2211 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian blanket, white prickly poppy, coreopsis
Comments:
Normally, it is pretty dry in this part of the state. However, the rains seem to have brought out several good areas of wildflowers. I took these photos last 5-2-2010. The bluebonnets are starting to fade, however, the golden flowers are really shining now. It was a beautiful combination. Here are images from my trip
5/6/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Caldwell, Gonzales, Dewitt Counties Flower Types:
many
Comments:
I made one last trip through the aforementioned areas on Sunday. I started toward Niederwald and Lockhart on FM 2001 based on an earlier sighting report, and was very pleasantly surprised at the mixed displays. bluebonnets are hanging tough, paintbrush are in their last throes, pink primrose is abundant, and buttercups and bee balm are also coming along. Closer to Lockhart and flatter terrain, there are nice roadside displays of gaillardia and black-eyed susans.
Toward Luling and Harwood, most displays have faded, but there are still some significant areas of white prickly poppies and more roadside gaillardias. I found a couple large fields full of prairie coneflower near Gonzales; checked out the church near Pilgrim with abundant flowers out front, but didn't stop as a funeral was being held; then, meandered toward Dewitt County for the bulk of the day's activities.
From Westhoff, Cheapside Rd. and Bellevue Cemetery Rd. offered some of the best scenery of the day. The large lot in front of the church at Cheapside has also faded significantly over the past three weeks; but in that locations and along the roadsides in the area, the there's a tremendous and disparate mix of flowers, giving credence to Dewitt County being the "Wildflower Capital of Texas."
winecups, gaillardia, chicory, bee balm, coneflower, plains coreopsis, lazy daisies, magenta phlox (still!) ... the list goes on and on. South of Cuero, excellent roadside displays can be seen along FM 2817 and FM 237 toward Yorktown. There are many fields with white lazy daisies blanketing the ground, various yellow flowers, and decent-size patches of magenta phlox. Roadsides continue showing abundant gaillardia, coneflower and coreopsis.
I've added the latest images to my gallery here.
5/3/2010
From:
Robert Pressley
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
2323 and 16 Flower Types:
coreopsis, black-eyed susan, indian blanket, bluebonnet
Comments:
It is like taking a visit to Oz. The area is saturated in yellow and red. Never ending fields of Greenthread, indian blanket, black-eyed susan and coreopsis, and still a fair amount of bluebonnets can be found all along 2323 from Llano down towards Hilltop. Do yourself a favor and take some of the back roads like CR 112, 113 or 114 to Oxford and then cross over back to 2323 and you will be very glad you did. This is an excellent opportunity to see expansive fields of vibrant color and a nice variety of species.
5/3/2010
From:
Susan Weatherford
City:
Dallas
Crossroads:
McIntire and Lucas Faitheon in Mesquite Flower Types:
obediant plant, bastard plant, branched broomrape and others
Comments:
A native Texan, I have been awed by the beautiful flowers all over the state. This year, our weather has created a flower wonderland and while exercising my Dalmatian/GSP in one of the open areas in Mesquite I found two flowers I did not recognize and others I did not remember the names. I found one on your unidentified flower list: branched broomrape! I saw a bluebonnet in the tall grass but found it to be three thick stalks with sparse little bluish purple flowers no leaves. It was growing a foot or two away from a large concrete open drain or spring. I only found that one. It will be spread as mowers keep a wide area clear. I beat the mowers to this find. My adorable plant with yellow flowers is bastard cabbage and it is abundant. I have a yellow five petal flower that looks waxed shiny sprinkled with glitter. Still looking for it.
5/2/2010
From:
C. Owensby
City:
Paradise, TX
Comments:
Just wanted to say thanks for the beautiful pictures. I'm not good at names of the flowers but I'm really enjoying the abundant bluebonnets and indian paintbrushes this year!
5/1/2010
From:
Liz W.
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
FM 2323 & Highway 152 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, coreopsis and many, many others
Comments:
I'm not local, so can't speak to the many varieties I saw, but thank you for the posts to check out 2323 and 152 -- they were spectacular Thursday 4/29. There were more varieties than I could count -- couldn't decide which was prettier, the big swathes of one color or when they all blended together. A real treat for my 85-year-old mother. Perhaps someone knows a rancher in the area that might let the "engagement couple" on their land long enough for the big moment. Sounds lovely -- all the best. Are their flowers at the Walden Plantation off 29? Thanks to you all for your updates -- they helped me pull off a very special trip.
4/30/2010
From:
Donna Gipson
City:
From Burnet to Llano then Llano to Fredericksburg
Crossroads:
29 East & West and 16 North & South Flower Types:
too many to name.. just a gorgeous array of flowers and colors
Comments:
My family & I went to Fredericksburg this past weekend(the 24th & 25th) & on the way there & back we saw an abundance of beautiful wildflowers along the road sides & in the fields. There were bluebonnets, indian blankets, texas paintbrush, poppies, phlox, winecups, & more. Just beautiful this year!
4/30/2010
From:
Michael Nance
City:
Willow City
Crossroads:
Country Road Flower Types:
lovely ones
Comments:
Hello! I have stumbled onto this sight in the hopes of finding a beautiful and accessible spot in the hill country with beautiful wild flowers. I have been dating my lovely, patient, and beautiful girl friend for over three years now and I want nothing more than to propose to her while surrounded by a bed of wild flowers. I am going to propose to her Friday May 7th. I was hoping anyone could lead me to an area of wild flowers that is accessible and relatively remote. Her heart would melt but if only I can find the place! We will be driving from San Antonio. If you have suggestions for locations, please help and I will be ETERNALLY grateful!
4/30/2010Answer:
Ok, that one got me ... I don't usually allow requests for locations to be posted to the sightings, but I'll make an exception for this one.
From:
Betty Welch
City:
Pilgrim, Texas
Crossroads:
Smiley, Texas Flower Types:
so many that i have not identified them all yet
Comments:
South from Smiley (south of Sequin and Nixon) will be a turn to the left. The sign is marked Pilgrim. As you go down that road look for a Historical Marker. This marker will direct you down a dirt road. A mile or so on your left, you will see them. The church was erected in 1881. The yard of the church as well as the old cementary is just covered! We could not believe the beauty of it all. We stayed over an hour taking pictures.
4/29/2010
From:
John Bissell
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
152, 2323, 16, 965, 2241 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, poppies, indian blankets, yellow flowers
Comments:
Went out to the Hill Country twice this week (4/26 and 4/28). There's still time to see lots of great color! Llano is the place to start. FM 152 and 2323 between Llano and US 87 are incredible and the route makes for a nice loop. RR 2241 from Llano to Tow also has some very nice fields of yellow and many bluebonnets still look pretty good. RR 965 north of Enchanted Rock and TX 16 north of the Willow City Loop/1323 are still showing a lot of color.
The Willow Loop itself has its usual complement of poppies and the bluebonnets still have some color.
Didn't find Park Rd 4 too interesting compared to the other routes.
I've posted some pictures here.
4/28/2010
From:
Poki Sawyer
City:
Morgan's Point Resort
Crossroads:
Park Rd 4 between 281 and Kingsland Comments:
According to a book I have, it says Park Rd 4 usually has wildflowers in a good year! Well, 2010 must qualify as a good year, because the roadsides were full of beautiful flowers in all varieties and colors. 4/25/2010. I'm certainly glad I went!
4/27/2010
From:
Mae Hooter
City:
mason
Crossroads:
james river road Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
I just returned from a trip to Mason and James River Road. The bluebonnets are beautiful. I turned around at James River. I have a small, low to the ground car and didn't want to take a chance in crossing, but I think you can if you have a high clearance vehicle. It is well worth the trip. I have been twice this year. I came back through Willow City Loop and was very disappointed, especially after being in Mason County.
4/27/2010
From:
Maria West
City:
Kerrville to San Antonio
Crossroads:
Interstate 10 Flower Types:
all types
Comments:
The highway on both sides and the media are like a blanket of wildflowers. It was hard to watch the road for looking at all the flowers. Best ever....
4/27/2010
From:
Janelle Britton
City:
Burnet
Crossroads:
29/road to Canyon of the Eagles Lodge/Restaurant Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian paintbrush
Comments:
Turning off of Hwy 29 west of Burnet on our way to the Canyon of the Eagles Lodge on Lake Buchanan the wild flowers are gorgeous! The bluebonnets and Indian paint Brush are solid on both sides of the road, up the hills and out in the pastures. Add to that the winding road with a view of the lake and it is a sight worth the trip!
4/26/2010
From:
Phyllis Thomas
City:
Lockhart
Crossroads:
On FM 2001 between Hwy 21 and Lockhart and other county rds in Lockhart Flower Types:
fields of bluebonnets and paintbrushes
Comments:
Beautiful fields of wildflowers all over the county roads in the Lockhart/Luling area.
4/26/2010
From:
Ben Jennings
City:
Abilene
Crossroads:
707 east of 83/84 Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
Acres and acres of beautiful bluebonnets. The field was planted for picture taking and enjoyment.
4/26/2010
From:
Kim W
City:
Llano, Mason, Pleasant Mountain to Oxford, Willow City Loop
Crossroads:
Several Flower Types:
bluebonnets, white poppies, indian blanket, indian paintbrush, many more...
Comments:
Took a daytrip from Forney, TX down through Llano, Mason, and south to Pleasant Mountain and over to Oxford, then down to Willow City Loop and Fredericksburg, then back up home. Could NOT believe my eyse at James River Road in Mason--and this was after Friday night's rains...my Mazda 3 5-door went through all the water!! RR 113 from Pleasant Mountain over to Oxford was incredible, too. I didn't get to see all of Willow City Loop (started worrying about gasoline for car), but what I did see was great. I HOPE to share all this with my husband next weekend now!
4/25/2010
From:
Doris Day
City:
Jasper
Crossroads:
James River Road Flower Types:
bluebonnets, various others
Comments:
Thank you very much to Julie who posted the information about James River Road in Mason. Just got back 04.24.2010 and it was truly amazing!
4/25/2010
From:
Maria West
City:
Willow City Loop
Crossroads:
Hwy 16 Flower Types:
all types
Comments:
Hwy 16 N of Fredericksburg going to Llano is beautiful on both sides. Went through Willow City Loop and the flowers are still beautiful. I saw two groups of white bluebonnets. That is rare to see.
4/24/2010
From:
Steve Richard
City:
Llano, Mason, Willow City
Crossroads:
Follow Juli Wilson (4/21) and Theresa Dimenno's (4/23) directions below Flower Types:
white prickly poppy, bluebonnets, indian paintbrush, phlox, and more
Comments:
On Wednesday, we followed Juli Wilson's directions (4/21)on the Althauser Davis Road, Rt 152 west from Llano, and the James River Road. All of the trip was spectacular. The extensive fields of white poppy were breathtaking. If we had only visited the Willow City Loop, we would have been disappointed, but the color display along Rt 152 and the magnificant bluebonnet displays (almost continuous) along the James River Road made the trip one of the best. A photographer I met said the James River Road bluebonnet display was the most magnificent wildflower display he's seen in 25 years of wildflower photography. thanks Juli
4/23/2010
From:
Tammy S.
City:
Mason
Crossroads:
James River Road Flower Types:
bluebonnets and more
Comments:
Wow! James River Road is spectacular! Thanks to everyone who reported on it. This was the most scenic road I have seen in the Texas Hill Country. bluebonnets everywhere with cactus and rocky ledges and small creeks - very picturesque! Defnitiely worth the drive. Great way to spend an afternoon!
4/23/2010
From:
Poki Sawyer
City:
Morgan's Point Resort
Crossroads:
FM 1670 - Stillhouse Hollow Dam Rd, between Hwy 190 and FM2484, Belton/Salado Flower Types:
bluebonnets & indian paintbrush
Comments:
This is the fullest and most colorful patch I have found anywhere - plants are tall, and vibrant in color! They are protected on Corps of Engineers property, so those pesky LAWN MOWERS won't be depriving us of this site!
4/23/2010
From:
Jeff G.
City:
Fredericksburg, Marble Falls, Llano Areas
Flower Types:
bluebonnets & much more
Comments:
Over the past four days, we have traveled the areas mentioned above, including the Willow City Loop, north to Llano on Hwy 16, east on 71 to Johnson City, then to Marble Falls and Park Rd 4 by Inks Lake, then up to Hwy 29 back to Llano and Hwy 71 to Brady. All of the above were great. However, the thickest, lushest, healthiest, plumpest-looking bluebonnets I have ever seen was today (Thur. 4/22) at the little town of Pontotoc on Hwy 71 east of Brady. Stop in "downtown" Pontotoc, and on the north side of the hwy there are the ruins of an old stone building. There you will find a spectacular display of bluebonnets, paintbrushes, yellow Primroses, White poppies, and indian blanket that you will never forget.
4/23/2010
From:
Theresa Dimenno
City:
Houston
Crossroads:
Mason. 87-1723-2389 toward the Bat Cave Flower Types:
mostly bluebonnets, but all varieties of wildflowers
Comments:
I've been shooting wildflowers for a month now. In Houston, Chappell Hill, Industry, Bellville, San Antonio, Willow City Loop, Llano, Hwy 71, Castell and Prairie Mountain.
By far THE MOST amazing display is in Mason on the drive toward the bat cave. It's unlike other beautiful locations I've witnessed where there will be a lovely patch here ... then there, and consistently like this throughout a particular stretch of highway. In Mason, it is a continuous flow of a river of bluebonnets. Beautiful luscious bluebonnets, among other lovely wildflowers. There are certain areas where there are simply spectacular scenics.
The low water crossing at the James River is not impassable. I got out of my car and checked out the depth. It appeared to be about 8 - 10 inches high. I went right through it. I am in a Subaru Outback, but seriously, it isn't that deep. What you will see on the other side is one of the most beautiful panoramics in the area. Since everyone else had turned around, I had the place to myself, with a gently rolling river in the background. Once you reach this area.
4/23/2010
From:
Anna Castle
City:
Austin
Crossroads:
Hwy 16 @ RR 965 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, gallardia, winecups, thistles
Comments:
RR 965 is the road to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. It is gorgeous every inch of the way: I can't recommend it too highly!!! Thick patches of bluebonnets still going strong, also lots of the red/orange/yellows coming up, dominant in some areas. Inside the park there are bluebonnets growing in crushed granite along the creek, with the Rock in the background. Nothing like as crowded as Willow City Loop and then you can get in a nice walk at the park also! Hwy 16 is also spectacular all the way up to Llano, but not as easy to stop & take pix. Go - go. Get out there and look at our beloved old state at its very best!
4/23/2010
From:
Susan Chadwick
City:
Mason, TX
Crossroads:
From MASON go south on 1723 to 2389 cross the Llano River and continue to the James River about 8 mi Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
From a 90 year old resident "The best I've ever seen" Spectacular! Blue hills for as far as the eye can see. Low water crossing at the James River is impassable, so you'll turn around there.
4/22/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Kingsland
Crossroads:
FM 1431 Flower Types:
many types: see comments
Comments:
FM 1431 is excellent along most stretches from Kingsland east across Burnet County to the Travis County line. Native species on display include bluebonnet, Indian paintbrush, blue curls, spiderwort, Texas vervain, brown bitterweed, texas dandelion, wild garlic, dwarf dandelion, indian blanket, four-nerve daisy, engelmann daisy, phlox, pink mimosa, wild garlic, peppergrass, bull nettle, and some early Mexican hats.
4/22/2010
From:
Juli Wilson
City:
Fredericksburg, Llano areas
Crossroads:
Farm Rd 1323 and Althauser-Davis Rd. and many more! Flower Types:
blues, coreopsis, blanket, daisies...too many to mention
Comments:
Off the beaten path...took Althauser Davis Road north off 1323 (the same ranch/farm road that goes from Johnson City to Willow City Loop). Took it all the way to Farm Road 962, turned left, then another left on 71 into Llano. Alt-Davis is beautiful and a peaceful respite after Willow's "crowds" :-). Into Llano, then west on 152 to 87 was also fantastic, lots of bright gold coreopsis, gallardia (I think), paintbrush, and bluebonnets, plus several more in fuschias and reds.
Had been to areas in Washington Co. 2 days before...sadly, the field on Post Oak Point Rd. mentioned earlier has gone to weed. Also, went up and down and all around Arrow Lane near Luling as mentioned earlier by Bill Purcell (and in his shots 6 and 7 if I recall correctly), and it has also grown over but I could see the glory it had once been, under the wild growth. I found most of the best viewing far west of that area, in the Gillespie and Llano County areas.
Bill, thank you for the tip on CR 312 just south of Llano. So pretty for bluebonnets once you get down the road a piece, I went back twice.
Now, for the best bluebonnets I've seen on this trip (I came all the way from Michigan just for the wildflower burst)...
Outside of Mason, going south on 87 a few miles outside of town...turn right at the picnic area onto RR 1723. In about a mile, bear right onto RR 2389. Just after you cross the Llano River, turn right onto James River Road.
As you drive along (it's quite a distance, and the road turns to dirt but easily passable), look at the ridge to your left...covered with bluebonnets thick as grass, and all down the ridge to the roadside. The most incredible natural wildflower growth I've ever seen.
Back to Michigan tomorrow. Feeling blessed that I had one glorious day of blue sky and sunshine today! Enjoy the rest of the season, y'all! (a former Texan--I'm allowed to say that). ;-)
Juli
4/21/2010
From:
Mildred Brown
City:
Tucker
Crossroads:
all of East Texas Flower Types:
western paintbrush, bluebonnets, grape hyacinth, wisteria, and too many more to list
Comments:
With the excess rain we had this winter, the spring flowers are simply gorgeous with brilliant colors. The dogwoods, although late blooming, were fantastic.
4/20/2010
From:
Darren G
City:
Willow City
Flower Types:
various
Comments:
Hwy. 1323 from 281 to Willow City. Covered. Willow City loop also pretty good. Definitely the peak time. I have added some additional photos to my gallery which can be seen here
4/20/2010
From:
Gary Fetner
City:
Waco
Flower Types:
bluebonnets, etc.
Comments:
Willow City Loop.....there are no words to describe it. You have to see it to believe it.
4/19/2010
From:
Julie Alexander
City:
Llano area
Crossroads:
Willow City Loop , also RR 152 Flower Types:
white prickly poppy, bluebonnets, yellow primrose
Comments:
The north part of Willow City Loop is breathtaking, with bluebonnets and an unbelievable showing of white prickly poppies. Went today and still they are still at peak.
RR 152 was gorgeous with big plump bluebonnets, yellow primrose and other various flowers of purples and reds to give a really pretty display. This road really should not be missed. Add in lunch at Coopers BBQ in Llano and you have the the perfect Texas Hill Country day. Only wish there would have been sunnier skies today.
4/19/2010
From:
Dianne Martinez
City:
Willow City Loop
Flower Types:
bluebonnets, paintbrush, pholox, indian blanket, wine cups, white poppies, lots of yellow too
Comments:
Take 1323 from 281 at Johnson City...drive slow. The entire way is like a dream, especially on the way down from the Canyon rim the "Loop"... I've been going for years and never seen it like this. No pictures can do it justice.
4/19/2010
From:
Megan Geltz
City:
Llano, Prairie Mountain, Castel
Crossroads:
2323, 87, 152 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian paintbrushes, white poppies, phlox
Comments:
2323 had fields of thick bluebonnets with white poppies that must have been 4ft tall! The roads were lined from Llano through Prairie Mountain with all the flowers I listed above. North on 87 up to 152 there were a couple of gorgeous yellow fields and one particular field on the right side of the road with a pond, trees, TONS of cactus and a sea of blue surrounding everything. 152 from Castell to Llano was also amazing. Tons of phlox mixed with the bluebonnets and even indian blankets. I have NEVER seen a wild flower display more amazing.
4/19/2010
From:
Tara L.
City:
San Antonio
Crossroads:
US 119, heading west from DeWitt County, through Gillett, & to Hwy. 87. From 87 heading west ending Flower Types:
indian paintbrush, bluebonnets, yellow & pink primrose, indian blanket
Comments:
April 16, 2010: We just made the trip back from Rockport via US 239, US 119, & Hwy. 87. Absolutely GORGEOUS...especially in DeWitt County.
4/19/2010
From:
Rex From Louisiana
City:
Dewitt County, Hill Country, ect.
Flower Types:
mixed
Comments:
We just returned from an 8-day Texas wildflower tour, and I must echo the sentiments of most of the other posting...it's the best I've seen in years.
After several drought years, Dewitt County again had fabulous viewing almost everywhere we went. Hwy. 72 from US 87 Cuero to Yorktown is one recommendation. However, Cheapside Road from the intersection with US 87 just takes your breath away along the entire route with a continuous mix of bluebonnets, poppies, toadflax, winecups, verbenia, and all the yellow composites.
Next we explored the Hill Country. From Johnson City to the Willow City Loop on 1323 was outstanding, particularly for BB's and poppies. Willow City Loop was back to its fabulous self, although very, very crowded. Hwy. 16 from Fredericksburg to Llano had one fantastic view after another.
We left the area before the heavy rains set in, however,let me recommend a stop at Union Band Cemetery on Hwy. 71 near Pontonoc. The bbs filled the air with their color and fragrance. However, our absolute favorite road of the entire tour was RR 2323 from US 87 north of Fredericksburg, all the way to Llano. I have never seen such a gorgeous mix at every turn...plus it is not heavly traveled and there are spots to safely leave the road for photos. Prairie Mountain School on this route is a must stop.
Next we toured Austin, Washington, and Waller counties, and found some very nice fields and roadsides, however, we found the area over-all lacking in blooms this year. The fields near Whitehall which have thrilled in the past had very little bloom, and what was there was nearing past peak. I talked with the lady at the Whitehall Store, and she said she though a late cold snap with frost and below freezing temps was the reason for this year's decline. It's still wonderful country-side to visit.
It has been a spectacular season, and we are grateful for another delightful Texas wildflower tour, and look forward to many more.
4/19/2010
From:
Charles Townsend
City:
Aspermont
Flower Types:
bluebonnets, along with a host of gold, white and purple wildflowers
Comments:
The wildflowers have arrived this week in N. Texas. They are not at as widespread as in central TX, but in places they are very nice. These photos are from FM 2211 in Stonewall county; taken yesterday on 4-18-2010. Here are the images from our trip
4/19/2010
From:
Carol Watkins
City:
Fredericksburg to Llano via Willow City Loop
Crossroads:
Hwy 29 Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
First trip to Willow City Loop - amazing! The bluebonnets were spectacular! Deep blueish-purple, easily up to a foot tall. Won't be my last trip!
4/18/2010
From:
Allison Onhaizer
City:
near Hempstead
Crossroads:
Hwy 290 and FM 1488 Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
There are fields flooded with bluebonnets. Gorgeous pictures. On the east-bound side of 290 just past 1488, there is one field on the right that allows you to park and go anywhere in the vast field for pictures...a must for families!
4/18/2010
From:
Carolyn Barclay
City:
Freiheit/Barbarossa (County Line Comal/Guadalupe)
Crossroads:
Huber Road Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
I have seen some bluebonnets, but never like this. There is a field, several actually, on the east side that is a blanket of blue. Extraordinary! This area is as country road as it gets, just outside New Braunfels and Seguin off Hwy 46.
4/18/2010
From:
Carolyn Barclay
City:
Yoakum
Crossroads:
Hwy 111 just outside Yoakum Flower Types:
yellow daisies
Comments:
There is a field on the south side of Hwy 111 that is so covered with yellow daisies it almost hurts your eyes! There is also a beautiful "bouquet" of several types of flowers in the center of the road at the intersection of 183/111.
4/18/2010
From:
Bubba Beckner
City:
sunset, texas
Crossroads:
hwy us 287 Between Decatur and Bowie Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
Just wonderful!!
4/18/2010
From:
Randy Jacobs
City:
allen
Crossroads:
1611 Clarke Springs Drive Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
Huge bluebonnets all over the yard.
4/18/2010
From:
Lynda Mccormick
City:
Burkburnett
Crossroads:
I-44 crossing Loop 11 to the Oklahoma Border Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian paintbrush
Comments:
Awesome!
4/17/2010
From:
Melanie Williams
City:
Denton
Crossroads:
W. University and Ector Street Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
This is a plush field of bluebonnets with lots of green tree foliage as a backdrop.
4/17/2010
From:
Janie Cole
City:
Abilene, TX
Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
On highway 277 south and west of Wichita Falls there are lots of pretty areas. Around Dundee, Mabelle, and Seymour I saw several fields of blue, purple and yellow. Didn't have time to stop and investigate the types of flowers.
4/16/2010
From:
Seneca M.
City:
Brenham/Washington County
Crossroads:
FM 390, FM 912, FM 1155, FM 50, FM 105, Hwy. 290 & Hwy 36 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian paintbrush, coreopsis, engelmann's daisy, verbena, pink evening primrose, wild mustard
Comments:
coreopsis, bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, verbena, wild mustard, pink evening primrose and engelmann's daisy color the green rolling hills of Washington County with vibrant yellows, bluish indigo, coral pink, lavender and pink. Just about any path you choose will give you wonderful sights of Texas springtime. Hwy. 290, FM 390, FM 50, FM 912, FM 1155, FM 332, Hwy. 36, Hwy. 105 and everything in between are great for wildflower viewings. For some safe viewing and picture taking spots, try behind Westwood Shell in Brenham, Old Baylor Park in Independence and Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site in Washington.
4/16/2010Answer:
Thanks Seneca! We appreciate the updates from the Washington County Chamber of Commerce / Convention & Visitors Bureau.
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Willow City Loop
Crossroads:
FM 1323 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, texas groundsel, white prickly poppies
Comments:
As of April 14, the bluebonnets along RR 1323 and the Willow City Loop were still dense and attractive. There were also magnificent stands of Texas groundsel and white prickly poppy, and some excellent patches of phlox. The rain since then should help extend the floral displays.
4/16/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Hill Country (part 1) Flower Types:
many
Comments:
Just south and east of Llano, many of the county roads I scouted back in late February have now bloomed profusely, especially along CR 304 and CR 312. SH 71 has some especially nice displays of bluebonnets and peppergrass - the latter is so thick in some places, their greenish-white hue makes it looks like the fields look like they have glow-in-the-dark material applied to them. It's an unusual and unexpected treat.
RR 3347 and Althaus-Davis in Blanco County are both gorgeous, and there's fairly good coverage near Sandy on RR 1323.
In Mason County, there are some fantastic sights between Mason and Fredonia along RRs 386, 2618 and surrounding roads with phlox, bluebonnets, yellow primrose, vetch and more; SH71, as reported by many others is stunning. I struck out in several other locations, however, as I opted for roads less taken, and seemed to pick the &wrong" ones all afternoon; so, in order to see the good stuff, definitely refer to earlier posts from more successful folks.
I'm going to pass this weekend as all the secondary roads out there are likely muddy if not impassable from all the rain this week. The good news is, that only means that things will be even better two or three weeks out when the coreopsis, gaillardias, lazy daisies and maybe even horsemint join the show. I'll definitely post again after another visit ...
I've made a large update to my 2010 gallery from last weekend's travels, and you can view them here, as always.
Thanks to many who have provided encouraging feedback!
4/15/2010
From:
Jackie K
City:
Fischer, TX
Crossroads:
San Marcos to Luling to Seguin Flower Types:
just about every texas wildflower in my pocket guide
Comments:
We took Hwy 80 from San Marcos to Luling - spectacular! More wildflowers than we have ever seen here. Then, Hwy 183 to Gonzales, equally prolific. We looped back on Hwy 90 to Seguin, not quite as intense but still a lovely ride through ranching and farming country. Enough flowers on this drive to satisfy flower lovers and photographers.
4/15/2010
From:
Gary Fetner
City:
Waco
Crossroads:
Hiway 6, various other spots Flower Types:
bluebonnets and paintbrush
Comments:
Highway 6 from I-35 west towards Speegleville is covered in bluebonnets. Highway 84 through Woodway is also very nice.
But you don't have to be in the country to see bluebonnets-in the Central Texas Marketplace, the road that runs behind the center to the apts and the hotel features heavy bluebonnets on one side and bluebonnets/ paintbrush on the other. On Imperial Drive there is a field next to Marathon Battery covered in bb's and paintbrush. On Old Temple Road between Spring Valley and Hewitt Dr there is a field with a creek; one slope of the creek is just solid bluebonnets.
4/15/2010
From:
Sonia Moore
City:
Houston
Crossroads:
Take 290 west to Brookshire (Exit 359) Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
3 - 4 hot spots - acres and acres of bluebonnet fields on both sides heading from Hempstead to Brookshire. Awesome!!!
4/15/2010
From:
Myra Scruggs
City:
Jacksonville
Crossroads:
Lookout Valley Rd. Flower Types:
bluebonnets & indian paintbrushes
Comments:
Near Loves Lookout, Jacksonville, TX is a family owned property with three generations of cultivated fields of bluebonnets and indian paintbrushes. The family is very gracious and welcomes visitors. They are three generations of protectors of the bluebonnet and indian paint brushes.
4/15/2010
From:
Linda H.
City:
Fredericksburg
Crossroads:
FM 2323 (Priairie Mountain) Flower Types:
bluebonnets, paintbrush, white poppies, primrose, drummond phlox
Comments:
We drove from Fbg to Llano on FM 2323. Not much in Gillespie County, but the roadside exploded in color at the Llano County line. It was non-stop color on the roadside the rest of the way to Llano. We have never seen the flowers that thick and vibrant.
Less traffic than the Willow City Loop.
4/14/2010
From:
M David Morales
City:
Wimberley
Crossroads:
Luling to Schulenburg on I-10 Flower Types:
bluebonnets, indian paintbrush, all kinds of yellow flowers
Comments:
Many years this stretch is very good along I-10, but this year is spectacular!!
4/14/2010
From:
Steve Schwartzman
City:
Bastrop
Crossroads:
Shiloh Rd. Flower Types:
texas groundsel, indian paintbrush, drummond's phlox, texas vervain
Comments:
Shiloh Rd., which runs parallel to TX 71 about a mile south of 71 and west of Bastrop, is spectacular. Practically every property on that two-mile-long road has paintbrushes. Texas groundsel is also abundant there, as are bluebonnets, Texas vervain, and Drummond's phlox. TX 304, which links Shiloh Rd. to TX 71, also had some good fields, and FM 969 between Webberville and the west side of Bastrop was spectacular too.
4/14/2010
From:
Fernando K
City:
New Berlin, Chappell Hill, Independence, and surrounding areas
Crossroads:
Many Flower Types:
all types
Comments:
These sightings are from 4/9/2010 and 4/11/2010.
You can see some of the images, as well as exact locations here.
New Berlin: bluebonnets and castillejas everywhere. yellow coreopsis.
Chappel Hill: coreopsis, bluebonnets, Prickly Poppies
Independence: blue-eyed grass, bluebonnets, yellow coreopsis
4/13/2010
From:
Bill Purcell
Crossroads:
Much of South-central TX Flower Types:
countless species
Comments:
I began a 48-hour, 825-mile wildflower excursion Friday evening ... it was exhausting, but quite rewarding. I was able to cover much of the area I'd hoped to see on Saturday (before hitting the Hill Country on Sunday - that report still to come); here's the blow-by-blow, to the best of my recollection:
- Caldwell County - Many folks have asked where I found the field featured in photos #6 and #7 in my gallery. It is on Arrow Lane, a narrow county road near Luling, just north of the intersection of I-10 and 183/90. I re-visited the location Friday evening hoping for some good sunset opportunities. The field wasn't as spectacular as it was two weeks back, as various "new stuff" was growing up and obscuring much of the reds and blues.
- Guadalupe County - I found the amazing field full of crown tickseed and paintbrush on FM 467/Church Rd. that Gary and Rich spoke about. Wonderful sight.
- Wilson County - FM 3432 has some nice mixed fields from SW of La Vernia over to Loop 1604 in Bexar County. Parts of FM 2579 west of Floresville are even more colorful than they were 2 weeks ago - stunning sights. TX 97 south of Floresville has some sizable displays of rose- and white- prickly poppies along with wine cups, phlox and a few gaillardias. US 181 toward Poth and Falls City has some very interesting mixes of flowers, including small multi-colored daisies which resemble desert wildflowers.
- Frio County - Unfortunately, Natalia/Devine are past peak, and I missed the good stuff. The medians along I-35 are still packed with color, however.
- Atascosa County - FM 2504 between Kyote and Rossville is absolutely unbelievable. I'd have to say that the roadside displays along this route are among the best I've ever seen. Nearly every species of flower you could imagine is present - they're all together in harmony, and it's breathtaking. Excellent displays continue through Poteet and Pleasanton.
- Karnes County - There's a large, sloped field full of white poppies at Panna Maria. I also stopped at the Catholic Church for a few photos. Several more fields of poppies can be found down toward Helena and Runge.
- Dewitt County - It was getting late in the day, and I didn't get to see as much of Dewitt as I wanted to - but I found some "You gotta be kidding me" displays there. TX 72 has intermittent fields of color form Nordheim to Yorktown. Between Yorktown and Cuero, I found a field so full of yellow (crown tickseed), I couldn't believe my eyes. Closer to Westhoff, there are large fields of pink primrose with bluebonnets and paintbrush mixed in ... and a couple more locations with large displays of red drummond phlox.
4/13/2010Answer:
Thanks Bill! Much appreciated.
From:
Reecea Henderson
City:
Cleburne
Crossroads:
along Hwy 67 from Hwy 174 continuing south til just past CR1 1121 Flower Types:
bluebonnets
Comments:
This is the main Hwy 67, not Business 67. Blooming started around Sunday April 11, 2010.
4/13/2010
From:
Kathryn A.
City:
Chappell Hill
Crossroads:
290 and FM 1155 Flower Types:
all kings
Comments:
There are the most gorgeous flowers in Chappell Hill this year. Go west out of Houston on 290 and turn north through Chappell Hill on FM 1155. Go through town and turn right on Valley Drive. It makes a large circle where you will see the most magnificent fields of wildflowers ever. Don't miss this beautiful area!!
4/13/2010
From:
Ramesh C
City:
Multiple
Crossroads:
See below Flower Types:
a whole lot !
Comments:
Hwy 20 - Burnet to Llano: Great multicolour roadside ? verbena, phlox, wine cups along with paintbrush and bluebonnets. House closer to Llano with great field of paintbrush, along with bluebonnets, place to park.
Burnet RR2341 to canyon of Eagles - great multicolour smaller patches , yucca blooms on cliffs, places to pull over; thanks to reports here ....
Llano to Willow city Loop : HWy 16 great, not to be missed - fields of white prickly poppies along with others
Willow city loop : of course!
Willow city to Johnson City :Farm Road 1323 good drive, sheep along with mixed flowers.
Chapel Hill : Farm Rd 1155 just north of town - field of blue bonnets, great fields of yellow blocked by trees further down the road.
Independence : Farm to market 50 from Hwy 105 to Farm 390: great ! full field of bluebonnets and a smaller field of paintbrush and mixed wildflowers opposite tree farm. Thanks to the folks for making paths in the paint brush to walk in and take pics and also along the fence to see the bluebonnet fields ....
Farm 390 from Independence to William penn road to Hwy 105 : very peaceful and overall good views - cows, horses, lot of trees, etc.
Hwy 105- Navasota - hwy 90 - hwy30 to Huntsville: good drive; Hwy 30 has, for 2 times now, proven not to dissapoint with great mixed colours. Small field of crimson clover ? Did not stop to check !
IH 45 bet Huntsville and Centerville good !
Of course, it is great every where ! Have fun !
4/12/2010
From:
Barbara M
City:
Llano
Crossroads:
Hwy 71, Hwy 16, CR 304 Flower Types:
lots of the yellow flowers, bluebonnets, mix
Comments:
There is a large field of yellow at CR 304 and Hwy.71. Turn down 304 and there are places to get very good pictures. There are a few of the white bluebonnets on the east side of the road and plenty of the mix of yellow, blue, orange, pink and purple. This is an access road for the ranch properties so stay on the road and go slow, watch for cattle.
4/12/2010
From:
Darlene Broussard
City:
SAN ANTONIO
Crossroads:
hwy 29 from burnet to llano/hwy 71 lanno to 281 Flower Types:
