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
Sunday - November 07, 2010
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Small flowering tree for cemetery in TX
Answered by: Anne Bossart
QUESTION:
I am looking for a native large shrub or small tree to plant at a cemetery in Pflugerville, TX, preferable something with flowers. I need something that won't have a large root system that would disturb caskets or tombstone. Would an anacacho orchid be a good choice? If not, what would you suggest.ANSWER:
According to our Native Plant Database, Texas is the only US state where Bauhinia lunarioides (Anacacho orchid tree) is native and it will grow to height of 6-12 feet at maturity.
It seems to me, that it would be a fitting tribute and a suitable plant in a Texas cemetery. It has a graceful form and delicate leaves. It flowers generously in spring and then sporadically thorughout the rest of the growing season (there is one at the Wildflower Center that has blooms on it now).
Seeing as the tree is relatively small and root systems are in balance with the tree they must support, there is no need for concern about the roots; assuming you have verified that planting trees in the cemetery is permitted.
Despite its delicate appearance, it is a tough little tree. It will need to be watered until it is established but do not fertilize it.
More Trees Questions
Shade Tree for Baltimore Patio
September 11, 2013 - I am looking for a deep-rooted shade tree (or a tall shrub) for near my patio in Baltimore, Md. I desire shade in summer, but with minimum impact to the patio. The tree would be about 20 feet from the...
view the full question and answer
Ash tree dying back to lower sprouts in Kempner TX
June 19, 2010 - My 2 year old ash tree leaves dropped, appears dead, branches dying. New growth near base of tree. Do I cut upper trunk or remove entire tree? My other ash is doing well.
view the full question and answer
Plants found only in the Edwards Plateau of Texas area
March 23, 2008 - I am new to Austin, Texas and I am working with a group of 4th grade Cub Scouts on their Naturalist and Forester pins and we need to know about and have pictures of at least 6 trees and plants only fo...
view the full question and answer
Removing and replacing juniper bushes
June 20, 2008 - Hi! I'm pulling up juniper bushes. (just don't like it)
I'm getting down to the roots now on one side and I'm having a hard time getting them up. Any recommendations. They are near my drive...
view the full question and answer
Looking for juniper trees (Juniperus ashei) for sale
December 05, 2008 - Does anyone know anyone that sells Juniper trees in pots - the central Texas kind.
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |