Explore Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Can't find the answer in our existing FAQs, submit a question to Mr. Smarty Plants.
Need help with plant identification, visit the plant identification page.
rate this answer
Tuesday - July 31, 2012
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders, Pests, Trees
Title: Demise of Flameleaf Sumac in Austin, TX.
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
My Flameleaf Sumac suddenly died. Beetles came out around the trunk when I cut it down. How can I prevent this on the other sumac?ANSWER:
Flame-leaf Sumac Rhus lanceolata (Prairie flameleaf sumac) is a small deciduous tree with outstanding fall foliage that lives up to the name “flame-leaf”. It is described as a relatively fast growing tree, heat- cold- and drought tolerant, and generally pest and disease free.
Were there any major changes in the tree’s environment that precede its demise?
Mr. Smarty Plants suggests that you contact the folks at the Travis County office of Texas AgriLife Extension to have someone look at your tree and perhaps identify the beetles that you found. If they are the culprit, then some insecticide may be needed to protect your other Sumac.
More Trees Questions
Runaway growth on mountain laurel in Coolidge AZ
July 01, 2010 - I have 2 mountain laurels. They are thriving well. In fact one is growing way too fast. I am growing it as a tree, but the branches are in excess of 6 feet, while the trunk is only 18 or so inches. I ...
view the full question and answer
Texas fan ash draining sap in Selma TX
May 14, 2010 - I have a 3-year-old Texas Fan Ash tree that has recently begun to drain sap. Should I be concerned? If yes, what can I do to save the tree? Thank You!!
view the full question and answer
Looking for copper beach (Fagus sylvatica)
December 05, 2008 - I would like to purchase a copper beech tree to plant in CT as a gift. Where can I find one to purchase?
view the full question and answer
Newly planted nuttall oaks from Houston TX
November 16, 2012 - I recently purchased two Nuttall Oak Trees in Houston Texas (October). They are both 15' or taller. I planted them within 24 hours of being delivered, watered them in, staked them, and within 3-4 d...
view the full question and answer
What is the scoop on dwarf cedar elms?
April 29, 2009 - Several years ago, I purchased a small plant from a San Antonio wholesaler that was identified as a "Dwarf Cedar Elm." My brother had also purchased a few from there. No one there knows anything a...
view the full question and answer
 |
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. Mr. Smarty Plants wants you to be his Facebook friend. Click the Facebook icon to add yourself to Mr. Smarty Plants list of friends. |
