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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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Tuesday - June 16, 2015

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Trees
Title: Recommend a plant similar to Corkscrew Willow for Austin, TX.
Answered by: Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

Do corkscrew willows do well in Austin, TX? If not, can you recommend a willow like tree to plant along the banks of a creek?

ANSWER:

Corkscrew Willow (Salix matsudana 'Tortuosa') is a cultvar of a species native to China and is outside our area of study and expertise.  Black willow, (Salix nigra) is native to the Austin area and will perform well for the use you describe.

 

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