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_22.gif)
Monday - October 11, 2010
From: El Paso, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Privacy Screening
Title: FAST GROWING PRIVACY PLANTS IN EL PASO, TEXAS
Answered by: Mike Tomme
QUESTION:
Hello, First, I am totally ignorant of plants,trees planting,etc. However, I just moved to El Paso, Tx and find every home is surrounded by these hideous rock walls, which aren't nearly tall enough to serve a real purpose. Not to mention the "yard" is only about 10x10. My neighor and I should just share a patio since we have such a clear view. I need privacy fast! A fast growing hedge,bush,shade tree which doesn't atract birds/insects and that can be planted close to that wall!! Thanks!ANSWER:
First of all, Mr. Smarty Plants only recommends native plants. Fast, growing, El Paso and native plant do not go together. Desert plants grow slowly or grow very quickly when there's moisture available, then go dormant. Secondly, any plant that doesn't attract birds or insects must be so obnoxious that you wouldn't want to be around it either.
I think the solution to your problem is better solved architecturally (raise the wall or put up a fabric screen). Alternatively, you can make friends with your neighbor and take a lesson from the plants you see growing around El Paso - adapt to your environment.
More Privacy Screening Questions
Fence Shrub for Sugarland, TX
June 08, 2015 - Hello
I live in Sugar Land TX, I am looking for a fast growing shrub to plant along my six foot wood fence for a privacy screen. There is not a lot of room for them to grow in width but there is pl...
view the full question and answer
Redwood as a Screening Tree for Santa Cruz Garden?
January 20, 2015 - I have a small yard in Santa Cruz, CA and we have to hide/distract from a power line. My husband is demanding a redwood. Is this sane? The space it will have to grow in is about 20x20. What species of...
view the full question and answer
Privacy shrubs and trees that are safe for horses in California
June 16, 2012 - What type of privacy shrubs/trees can I plant that are safe around horses? I live in the central valley in CA. Thank you!
view the full question and answer
Screening plants for Alaska
March 28, 2009 - Just purchased a house and want more privacy along the fence lines. Which plants would work well in the cold environment but provide privacy without taking over the yard.
view the full question and answer
Evergreen for privacy screen in San Antonio
April 30, 2012 - I am looking to plant native fast-growing evergreens that will provide privacy (growing taller than our fence). We live in San Antonio and the Red Tip Photinia seems to be everywhere! I heard that t...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |