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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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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Tuesday - June 09, 2009

From: Meridian, ID
Region: Rocky Mountain
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Problem with non-native Chocolate Silk Tree, Albizia julibrissin
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

How do we get our Chocolate Silk Tree that once had redish brown leaves from now green to the original color? Thank You.

ANSWER:

The expertise and focus of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is with plants native to North America.  Summer Chocolate Silk tree is a cultivar of Albizia julibrissin (silk tree).  The native distribution of this tree is from Iran to Japan.  Not only is it a non-native and, thus, not really in our purview, but it is also considered invasive.  Mr. Smarty Plants suggests you go to UBC Botanical Garden Forums or iVillage GardenWeb forums where you can post your question and might be able to find the answer.

 

 
 

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