Hundreds of species of the Asteraceae family (also known as the sunflower family) grow wildly in Texas.
While the wildflower bloom in central Texas in 2024 was awe-inspiring and lasted months, this is more likely due to the flowers hardiness and not an indicator of the overall wildflower species’ wellbeing.
According to the Texas Invasive Species Institute, over 800 invasive animals, plants, and pathogens have been introduced to Texas and the damage caused by these species is estimated to surpass one billion dollars annually. One invasive species that threatens to push out Texas native wildflowers is “bastard cabbage.”
Since Texas is 97% private land, landowners can have a substantial impact on preserving native flora by planting native plants that restore soil health and wildlife habitats.