Is It Actually Against the Law to Pick Bluebonnets in Texas?

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I grew up in Texas, and with that upbringing came a few rules: Don't disrespect Texas BBQ or Tex-Mex, don't ask anyone how may head of cattle they have (it's considered rude), and don't pick the Bluebonnets.  In fact, I was raised to believe that not only was plucking the peaceful state flower from its blissful resting place frowned upon - it was illegal!

Every spring, mother nature (with a little help from the Texas Department of Transportation) paints the Lone Star State a beautiful shade of blue with our prolific and gorgeous Bluebonnet.  While the good lord above provides the rain, sunshine, and natural ingredients to nurture this incredible flower, TXDOT's Wildflower Program sows around 30,000 pounds of wildflower seed (including bluebonnets) up and down the Texas highways every year.

So, what would happen if you were to stop on the side of the road and grab a few of these beauties to liven up your dining room table?  Nothing, probably.  According to a report from KXII, it isn't actually against the law to pick Bluebonnets in Texas - if you're in the right spot.  As long as your not on private property (trespassing) or in any Texas state park (destruction of state property), it's perfectly legal to pick wildflowers - including Bluebonnets.  It is still, however, frowned upon.

TXDOT continues to ask for folks to leave the wildflowers alone, especially along the roadways.  It isn't that they don't want you to enjoy them, they just don't want you to pick apart all of their hard work.