Do You Know Illinois' State Symbols?

ICYMI: Illinois lawmakers approved two new state symbols during the spring session, the giant puffball mushroom and the soybean, both of which are plentiful across the state. Here’s a look at some of Illinois’ other official flora and fauna.

State Flower: Violet

In the spring, Chicagoans usually flock to Jackson Park to catch cherry blossoms and to Michigan Avenue to see tulips. But don’t sleep on the state flower: Violets come in a variety of colors, live in various habitats, and are edible. Schoolchildren picked out the state flower in 1908.

State Insect: Monarch Butterfly

It has been almost 50 years since third graders in Decatur first selected the state insect. Since then, residents have been trying to save and celebrate the endangered pollinators — like one Pilsen woman who turned her home into a butterfly sanctuary. And, yes, there are monarch butterfly license plates for sale.

State Reptile: Painted Turtle

Illinoisans voted online 20 years ago to make the painted turtle the state reptile. Common in lakes and ponds throughout the state, the painted turtle beat out the eastern box turtle and garter snake.

State Fruit: GoldRush Apple

Fourth graders downstate led the effort for the state to adopt an official fruit in 2007 after learning Illinois was one of the few states without one. Apple picking season will be here before you know it, and GoldRush apples are great for baking, cider, and more.

State Rock: Dolostone

Before the geologists come for me, I know a rock is not an animal or plant, but it’s outside and that’s good enough for this newsletter editor. Dolostone is a foundational rock in Illinois that has been quarried throughout the state for building and concrete materials. It’s also one of the newer state symbols, adopted in 2022.