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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.

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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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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Friday - September 12, 2008

From: Benbrook, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Question about non-native bottle brush bush
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

I have a bottle brush bush it has not bloomed. I have had it about 6 months planted in the ground. I am worried it may not. can you tell me what you think. thanks lori

ANSWER:

Thank you for submitting your question to Mr. Smarty Plants. Our expertise is in the sustainable use and conservation of native wildflowers, plants and landscapes. Unfortunately, your question about bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) falls outside the scope of our expertise since it is a native of Australia.

Mr. Smarty Plants suggests you try contacting your county extension agency or posting your question to one of the many gardening sites that deal with non-native ornamentals.  You might try contacting one of the UBC (University of British Columbia) Botanical Garden Forums.
 

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