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
Thursday - September 10, 2015
From: Belton, MO
Region: Midwest
Topic: Poisonous Plants, Shrubs
Title: Non-toxic evergreen shrub around duck pen
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
I live in Zone 6a, and am looking for a non-toxic evergreen shrub to use around our fence that pens in our ducks. It doesn't have to be native to our particular state. I have 74 feet of fence on the side we want to address first.ANSWER:
We must tell you that we are bound by our mission and by institutional philosophy to recommend only those plant species native to a given area. This is the very heart of what we do and what we're all about. Unfortunately, we do not know of a single evergreen shrub species native to your area that would be suitable for the use you describe. In general, though, unless your shrubs are fruit-bearing, there is little likelihood that your ducks will pay much attention to them. Some shrubs, such as hollies, have male and female plants. If choosing such a species, look for male cultivars.
More Poisonous Plants Questions
Is it quantity that makes silver nightshade poisonous to people?
September 18, 2012 - I have a recipe for Asadero cheese that uses silverleaf nightshade and have eaten this cheese many times. Is it too much quantity that makes it poisonous to people?
view the full question and answer
Plants safe for donkeys in Foristell MO
August 22, 2009 - I am looking for a plant that can grow next to a farm fence, preferably the length of the fence approx 75 ft. in a long row, one that miniature donkeys can safely eat, if they so choose. I like your ...
view the full question and answer
Cypress poisonous to livestock from Arlington, TN
December 06, 2012 - Are green giant cypress poisonous to livestock?
view the full question and answer
Are Eve's Necklace seeds poisonous to dogs from Plano TX
May 09, 2013 - Are the seed pods on eve's necklace poisionous to dogs?
view the full question and answer
Is Clethra alnifolia toxic to dogs?
June 01, 2013 - Is Clethra alnifolia toxic to dogs?
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |