Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_43.gif)
Wednesday - October 24, 2007
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Native trees as alternatives to Japanese Red Maple
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
Where can I find some Japanese Red Maples to collect seed?ANSWER:
The focus and expertise of the Wildflower Center is with plants native to North America and, while Acer palmatum (Japanese red maple) is not considered invasive, it is native to Japan and other Asian countries and NOT North America. Doubtless you could find trees of this species for sale in various local nurseries, but Mr. Smarty Plants would like to urge you to consider a native alternative. Here are some possibilities:Acer grandidentatum (bigtooth maple)
Cotinus obovatus (American smoketree)
Rhus lanceolata (prairie sumac)
More Trees Questions
Seed germination for sugar maple (Acer saccharum)
December 15, 2007 - How can I germinate sugar maple?(step by step, please) I have some seeds but can't make them grow directly outside, so could you recommend a method which takes place inside?! I've heard something ab...
view the full question and answer
Replacement for black walnut near septic tank
March 10, 2009 - We have a black walnut tree growing on the sunny side of our house which provides wonderful shade in the summer but it is such a dirty tree. The leaves drop very early as well as small branches and t...
view the full question and answer
Cypress poisonous to livestock from Arlington, TN
December 06, 2012 - Are green giant cypress poisonous to livestock?
view the full question and answer
Waht are the truly native Texas trees
August 20, 2007 - What two trees are truly native to Texas?
I was told pecan and can't remember the other.
view the full question and answer
Mulching in deep shade in Round Rock TX
June 22, 2010 - Central Texas: Problem is deep shade and high temps. I noted your advice about danger to the tree when planting beneath shade trees, but wonder if there is a substance - perhaps pine needles - that co...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |