Native Plants
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.
rate this answer
Friday - October 19, 2012
From: Coral Gables, FL
Region: Southeast
Topic: Shrubs
Title: Information about Melochia tomentosa
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
Hi, We have a plant in our garden that was received as Melochia tomentosa. It is a woody shrub, about 6' tall and 8' wide. According to the Institute for Regional Conservation, this species is not in cultivation. We received our plant from a nursery. I've looked at photos of this species on your site. Can you tell me if this actually grows as a woody shrub? I could not tell by the photos. Thanks!ANSWER:
The information in our Native Plant Database lists Melochia tomentosa (Teabush) as a shrub or subshrub which indicates it is woody. The USDA Plants Database shows it as being native and occurring in Texas and Florida and native in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. This article from the US Forest Service says that the shrub grows to a height of 4 meters (appx. 13 feet). Here is more information about the plants from the Palm Beach State College Landscape Plants for Southern Florida.
From the Image Gallery
More Shrubs Questions
What is hollowing out my rosebuds in Austin, TX?
April 28, 2012 - I recently noticed some of my rose buds had been hollowed out from the inside. I have seen no evidence of insect though. What do you think it is and how can I treat the problem?
view the full question and answer
Need plants for a hedge in Iredell, Tx
August 28, 2009 - I have six Penelope roses that I planted for a hedge about 14 years ago. I need to replace them. Will you please recommend heat tolerant plants that grow between 3-5 feet tall, preferable blooming, ...
view the full question and answer
Evergreen shrubs for blocking car noise in Austin
January 18, 2009 - I live on Bee Caves road and was wondering what is the best tree/shrub I could use to block noise from cars? I've seen evergreen mentioned, is this the right one to plant? Also, if there are existing...
view the full question and answer
Evergreen shrub with fall color in Round Rock, TX
September 21, 2009 - I am looking for a shrub that has fall color much like the burning bush euonymus, but needs to be evergreen the rest of the year since it will be used as a foundation plant. Are there any plants that...
view the full question and answer
Winter- and drought-resistant plant for North Central Texas
April 11, 2012 - I would like to know is there a good winter and drought resistant flowering bush for my area. I would like something with bigger flowers like azaleas or roses maybe bigger, that will not grow anymore...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |