Texas Wildflower Experts Share Detailed Forecast for 2025 Blooms

The annual Texas wildflower forecast for 2025 presents a mixed outlook, with regional variations expected across the state. Experts at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin warn that persistent drought conditions could impact blooms this year.

“If predicting the weather is a challenge, then predicting the wildflower bloom for a large state like Texas is even more difficult,” says Andrea DeLong-Amaya, horticulture director at the Wildflower Center. “With fluctuations in weather and micro-climate scenarios—where one small area may experience different conditions from another—it’s sometimes hard to make a broad prediction. This is one of those years.”

Eastern Texas is expected to have a more vibrant display of wildflowers, while the western regions may see fewer iconic species like the Texas bluebonnet and paintbrush.

Despite the unpredictable conditions across the state, the Wildflower Center remains a reliable spot for flower enthusiasts willing to visit Austin. The center is currently upgrading its nearly 300 acres of gardens, promising even more color in the seasons ahead.

“Our experts know how to coax blooms in our gardens,” says executive director Lee Clippard. “Visitors to the Hill Country can count on a strong floral experience by exploring our gardens and trails this spring.”

Although early blooms may be scarce in some areas, experts believe this could benefit late spring and summer species, such as firewheel and purple horsemint, especially if Texas receives more rainfall this spring.

For those planning their wildflower viewing trips, the Wine & Wildflower Journey Passport program offers an additional attraction—tastings at wineries throughout the Hill Country during peak bloom season. Travelers can also explore reliable wildflower spots from previous years for a higher chance of success.

Wildflower of the Year The Wildflower Center has named Gregg’s mistflower (Conoclinium greggii) the 2025 Wildflower of the Year. This hardy perennial, with its striking purplish-blue blooms, is known for its extended flowering period from March to November. It’s especially attractive to pollinators, particularly Queen butterflies.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin features expansive gardens, walking trails, and educational exhibits. The center honors Lady Bird Johnson’s environmental legacy and vision.