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

Friday - August 20, 2004
From: Delray Beach, FL
Region: Southeast
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Smarty Plants on Gloxinias
Answered by: Stephen Brueggerhoff
QUESTION:
How do I care for my newly acquired Gloxinias?ANSWER:
Plants known commonly as gloxinia (botanical name Sinningia speciosa) are native to tropical south America (Brazil). Their care is similiar to african violets; keep them in a warm place in your house in bright, but indirect light. Provide tepid water at the base of the plant as the foliage is susceptible to fungal pathogens, causing either "spotting" or rot. The plant is tuberous, needs ample water, yet will not tolerate a wet crown and may appear to die-back after flowering. After flowering, slowly dry off tubers and store them in a dark, well ventilated cool location (not to exceed 50 degrees F).
More Non-Natives Questions
Native alternatives for Japanese maple
September 05, 2007 - Hi, I am a landscaper trying to create a landscape in a shaded area with no sun. The person likes a Acer palmatum, but I am not sure it will grow there. We live in South Lake Tahoe. So I know of some ...
view the full question and answer
Information for native garden in Guadalajara, Mexico
July 24, 2006 - I am trying to start up my native garden in Guadalajara Mexico but have not been able to find many databases or info. Any advice or suggestions?
view the full question and answer
Non-native Senna corymbosa
September 28, 2008 - I have a large Texas Senna tree - at least 7'x8'. It is covered in beautiful yellow blooms; however, it will need to be pruned in the winter. Please let me know how much to prune it and when is th...
view the full question and answer
Problems with non-native peach trees from Lago Vista TX
April 06, 2011 - I have two peach trees that are setting fruit. Last year the small fruit had sap coming out of most of them. When they ripened there was a rotten spot in each of them. I had to throw most of them aw...
view the full question and answer
Non-native pomegranate in Albuquerque
September 07, 2009 - I don't know if they are now considered native or not but I am interested in planting Principia or Pomegranates in Albuquerque, windy and a mile high. Do I have a chance?
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |