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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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Thursday - February 12, 2009

From: Decatur, GA
Region: Select Region
Topic: Shrubs
Title: Evergreen, flowering hedge shrub for GA.
Answered by: Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

Hi, there! I am looking for a shrub for planting as a hedge in Decatur, GA. I have hard acidic clay and I would like an evergreen flowering shrub to line the edges of my backyard to separate it from my neighbors.' Something that grows no more than 10 feet and doesn't need a lot of pruning to look good. Thank you!

ANSWER:

Your requirements are pretty limiting.  Two species that generally fit the bill are flowering, but their flowers are not showy; Morella cerifera (wax myrtle) and Ilex vomitoria (yaupon) will both work as hedge/screens in your area.  Both of these species offer attractive fruit.
 

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