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.

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Wednesday - May 02, 2007

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Soils, Trees
Title: Soils for Acacia greggii and Bauhinia lunarioides
Answered by: Damon Waitt

QUESTION:

What kind of soil do you recommend for anacacia tree? I was stunned by the one blooming at Center. I have had one for years and it has not been happy. I figure it must be the soil.

ANSWER:

We are not sure if you are referring to an Acacia or an Anacacho Orchid tree so we will tell you a little about both. According to our Native Plant Database, Acacia greggii (catclaw acacia) prefers dry, caliche type, well-drained, sandy or rocky soils along with full sun. If you are referring to Bauhinia lunarioides (Texasplume) it also prefers a rocky, limestone soil. The orchid tree makes a gorgeous display with its silvery-gray bark and white flowers that resemble orchids. It does best when planted on the south side of a building, protected from winter winds.

Acacia greggii var. wrightii