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
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

rate this answer

Monday - March 30, 2009
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Seed and Plant Sources
Title: Are Texas mallows the source of marshmallows?
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
Did marshmallows that we eat originate from our native Texas mallow plants?ANSWER:
No, but you're on the right track! The origin of marshmallows as we know them today is not known with certainty, but the source is believed to be Althaea officinalis, Marsh mallow or Common marsh-mallow, a native of Africa and Europe. The pith of this plant, mixed with sugar and cooked, was used in early marshmallow recipes.
More Seed and Plant Sources Questions
Need source for seeds or plants of Pinus remota in Johnson City, TX..
October 18, 2011 - I cannot seem to find a source for Pinus remota or papershell pinyon pine. Who Grows this? I understand it is rare and would love to try it here in Johnson City. Thanks
view the full question and answer
Resources for a green roof project from Wayne PA
April 14, 2013 - Hello! I am researching a project to create a native wildflower/ turf mix for a green roof. I would ideally like to grow it as a sod mat, and then install it in rolls. I am currently working as an i...
view the full question and answer
Pinus taeda (Loblolly pines) for a property in Van Zandt County, Texas
March 17, 2015 - I want to initiate a stand of loblolly pine trees on our property in Van Zandt County in NE Texas. Assuming the ph factor is within range, how do I obtain seedings for this endeavor? Any other advic...
view the full question and answer
Seed sources for gardening projects for kids
March 27, 2008 - Hello! I want to grow some agriculture plants for my kids, namely, cotton, alfalfa, etc. Do you know of a source to buy seeds without chemicals? Thanks!
p.s. If you have any other ideas for co...
view the full question and answer
Preparing to plant buffalograss in Jonesboro, TX
April 25, 2009 - Our current lawn is full of broad-leaf weeds, KR bluestem, a little native grass, lots of wildflowers and in spots, lots of rocks . We are in the country in Hamilton Co., TX. We want to plant buffa...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |