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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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Friday - June 15, 2007

From: Taylor, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Seed and Plant Sources
Title: Karoo rose
Answered by: Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

Where would the Adenium obesum/desert rose/Karoo rose pictured in the Austin American-Statesman's Gardening section on 06/09/07 be available for purchase in or near the Taylor, Texas (76574) area?

ANSWER:

The focus of study and the expertise of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is limited to plants native to North America. Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) is native to Sub-Saharan Africa.  However, most local garden centers and retail nurseries carry this species at least periodically.
 

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