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 Shrubs Questions
Native boundary hedgerow plants for North Texas
May 31, 2015 - I have 27 acres of native prairie in the western edge of the cross timbers just a few miles south of the Red River between Nocona and Saint Jo, TX. I'm looking for some Texas native plant choices fo...
view the full question and answer
What grows in Tampa FL
July 01, 2013 - Please let me know what grows in the backyard in Tampa, FL to provide screening and privacy?
view the full question and answer
Converting a Texas backyard to grow Xerophytic native plants
January 09, 2015 - I am planning the conversion of our backyard, about 4000 sq ft of largely St Augustine, into a grassless landscape of hardscaping and native plants. I’ve been an avid gardener of rock garden plants i...
view the full question and answer
Different kinds of lantana in Wilmington, NC
July 19, 2009 - I live in Wilmington, NC. I spent a small fortune on three varieties of lantana--Cherry Sunrise, Ham & Eggs and Bandana Red.
I live on a salt water tidal creek and most are in full sun. Some are i...
view the full question and answer
Cenizo safe for consumption by parrots from Phoenix AZ
April 30, 2012 - Could you tell me if Cenizo, (Leucophyllum frutescens) branches and leaves can be fed to pets? (parrots)I read the leaves were often used for tea for humans, but can't find an information if safe fo...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |