Connecticut State Symbols: A Comprehensive Guide

Connecticut, a state steeped in history and natural beauty, has officially designated a variety of symbols that represent its unique identity. From its state flower to its state dinosaur, these emblems reflect the state’s cultural heritage, natural resources, and historical significance. This article provides a detailed overview of Connecticut’s official state symbols as of March 14, 2026.

Flora

State Flower: Mountain Laurel

The Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) has been Connecticut’s official state flower since 1907. Recognized as one of the most beautiful native American shrubs, it is also the state flower of Pennsylvania. It’s known by various other names including ivybush, calico bush, sheep laurel, lambkill, clamoun, and spoonwood – the latter stemming from Native American use of the wood for crafting spoons. The fragrant, star-shaped flowers are typically white and pink.

Children’s State Flower: Michaela Petit’s Four-O’Clocks

In 2015, Connecticut designated Michaela Petit’s Four-O’Clocks (Mirabilis jalapa) as the official Children’s State Flower.

State Tree: Charter Oak

The Charter Oak (Quercus alba, White Oak) was officially designated as the state tree in 1947.

Fauna

State Bird: American Robin

The American Robin (Turdus migratorius) became Connecticut’s state bird in 1943.

State Dog: Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky was designated as the state dog in 2024.

State Dinosaur: Dilophosaurus

In 2017, the Dilophosaurus was named the state dinosaur.

State Fish: American Shad

The American Shad (Alosa sapidissima) is the state fish, designated in 2003.

State Insect: European Mantis

The European Mantis, also known as the Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa), was adopted as the state insect in 1977.

State Animal: Sperm Whale

The Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) holds the honor of being Connecticut’s state animal, since 1975.

State Shellfish: Eastern Oyster

The Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) was designated as the state shellfish in 1989.

Geology

State Fossil: Eubrontes giganteus

Eubrontes giganteus is Connecticut’s official state fossil, designated in 1991.

State Mineral: Garnet

Garnet (Almandine garnet) is the state mineral, having been designated in 1977.

Culture & Other

State Aircraft: F4U Corsair

The F4U Corsair was named the state aircraft in 2005.

State Pioneering Aircraft: Gustave Whitehead’s No. 21

Gustave Whitehead’s No. 21 is recognized as the state’s pioneering aircraft.

State Motto, Flag & Seal

State Motto

Connecticut’s state motto is “Qui Transtulit Sustinet” (He Who Transplanted Still Sustains), adopted in 1897.

State Flag

The state flag features a white shield with three grapevines on a field of azure blue, accompanied by a banner displaying the state motto, adopted in 1897.

State Seal

The Great Seal of the State of Connecticut was established in 1784.