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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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Monday - January 19, 2009

From: Houston, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Fast-growing tree for Houston
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

Please suggest me fast growing tree like Eucalyptus for Zip 77099 to protect building with its shade. I understand Eucalyptus is not good for our area and is flammable. Any other with similar fast growing and good looking properties would be appreciated.

ANSWER:

Mr. Smarty Plants answered an almost identical question a few months ago.  Please see the answer to that question.  All of the trees shown in that answer would be suitable for your situation.  However, the Ilex opaca (American holly)  and Quercus virginiana (live oak) would not be considered particularly fast-growing. We have a few other questions about eucalyptus trees that you can read by putting the term "eucalyptus" in the Keyword Search box on the Ask Mr. Smarty Plants page.
 

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