Native Plants
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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.
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Saturday - October 24, 2015
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Shade Tolerant, Shrubs
Title: Evergreen shrub for Austin TX shade
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
I live in Austin, TX. I'm looking for a 4 season shrub for a partially shaded area that gets about 3 hours of sun towards the evening. It's mostly partially shaded.ANSWER:
Our website shows a list of native evergreen species that you may consider for your conditions. My particular recommendations include Garrya ovata ssp. lindheimeri (Lindheimer's silktassel), Mahonia trifoliolata (Agarita), Morella cerifera (Wax myrtle), Sabal minor (Dwarf palmetto), Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel), Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon) and Rhus virens (Evergreen sumac). Reading the descriptions of these plants will help you decide which fits your needs as regards size and appearance. In case you need it, this online article contains tips about planting shrubs.
Most of these species should be available at your local plant nurseries.
From the Image Gallery
More Shrubs Questions
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Starting Tecoma stans seedlings
February 25, 2013 - I planted and germinated several (about 40) seeds from my Tecoma stans plant and they all sprouted and grew very nicely. They are now about 6 weeks old and they don't seem to be making any more prog...
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Transplanting American Beautyberry from Elgin TX
August 04, 2012 - A friend wants me to take her American Beautyberry shrubs that are in containers, because she is moving and can't take them with her. I have to transport them in the back of a truck and am afraid th...
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Pruning of Desert Hibiscus Coulteri from Lubbock, TX
October 20, 2012 - Dear Mr. Smarty Plants,
We have in our garden this year 2 volunteer Desert Hibiscus Coulteri----quite lanky! I notice on your website under "comments" someone notes they should be cut back "nearly...
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Is Texas mountain laurel honey toxic?
May 25, 2015 - I have been told that honey produced from the flowers of my Texas Mountain Laurel (Sophora secundiflora) would not be safe to consume. Is this correct? The only information I have been able to find is...
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