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
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

rate this answer

Saturday - October 24, 2015
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Shade Tolerant, Shrubs
Title: Evergreen shrub for Austin TX shade
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
I live in Austin, TX. I'm looking for a 4 season shrub for a partially shaded area that gets about 3 hours of sun towards the evening. It's mostly partially shaded.ANSWER:
Our website shows a list of native evergreen species that you may consider for your conditions. My particular recommendations include Garrya ovata ssp. lindheimeri (Lindheimer's silktassel), Mahonia trifoliolata (Agarita), Morella cerifera (Wax myrtle), Sabal minor (Dwarf palmetto), Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel), Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon) and Rhus virens (Evergreen sumac). Reading the descriptions of these plants will help you decide which fits your needs as regards size and appearance. In case you need it, this online article contains tips about planting shrubs.
Most of these species should be available at your local plant nurseries.
From the Image Gallery
More Shade Tolerant Questions
Native shrubs or ground cover for north-facing landscape in Ft. Worth
March 23, 2010 - Need native plant ideas for a landscaping bed against the house facing north. Already has 1 Beautyberry but two others died of root rot last year due to incredibly high water table in our area. Old ...
view the full question and answer
How to protect Columbine plants from Texas sun
May 12, 2015 - I planted some Red columbine seeds in October of last year and they are now doing well, roughly 6-inches tall. I believed I was planting them in mostly shade at the time; that area now seems to get 6+...
view the full question and answer
Enough sun from San Marcos TX
February 22, 2013 - I would like to plant both Lantana urticoides and Salvia farinacea in area that only has morning to 1pm sun..Will this amount of sun be enough?
view the full question and answer
Native ground covers for shade in East Texas
June 06, 2008 - I live in Mount Pleasant, Texas which is in northeast Texas. I would like a list of ground covers that would do well in our area. The place I want to put it gets a lot of shade. The ground is clay. Th...
view the full question and answer
Non-poisonous trees to shade horse pasture in Leesville SC
February 07, 2011 - Please list NON-poisonous trees for horses in South Carolina. I would live to plant a few trees along the fence of my horse pasture and in my horse pasture for shade.
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |