Native Plants
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Wednesday - August 26, 2009
From: San Antonio, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Are American sycamore or hybrid poplar trees toxic to dogs in San Antonio?
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
We anticipate planting an American Sycamore or a Hybrid Poplar tree in our back yard but we have several small dogs and are concerned that they may eat some of the leaves. Do either of these trees possess any type of toxic elements that would be harmful to small dogs if consumed? Thanks for your help.ANSWER:
Mr. Smarty Plants would like to divide this question into two parts; first we'll talk about toxicity, and then we'll discuss plant choices.
There are numerous databases that contain the names of plants that are toxic to diffferent domestic animals, and I have included several below. When you use the database, it is better to use the scientific names for the plants; Platanus occidentalis for the Sycamore, and Populus sp. for the Poplar. Not finding the plant name on the list is not a gaurantee that the plant is non toxic, but it increases the probality that it isn't.
Poisonous Plants of North Carolina
Cornell University Plants Poisonous to Livestock
University of Pennsylvania Poisonous Plants
ASPCA Toxic and Non-toxic Plant List - Dogs
When choosing a tree to plant, think about these things; what do I want it do? (shade or ornamental), how much space do I have for it (think about mature size)?; how much "mess" can I tolerate?; what is the normal life span? By perusing this site from the Washington State University Extension, you will gain some insight to answering these and other questions dealing with planting trees.
Hybrid Poplars have become very popular in the US because they are a fast growing tree with a pleasing columnar mature shape. However, their rapid growth is coupled with a short life span. Generally, they represent crosses between North American Cottonwoods and European Poplars. This link gives some pros and cons regarding planting hybrid Poplars.
The American Sycamore Platanus occidentalis (American sycamore) is a fast growing shade tree that is drought resistant, deer resistant, and can grow to height of 70 to 100 feet; a very large tree! This WSU Extension site recommends against planting this tree
I'm going to refer you to a couple of previously answered questions; the first one has some good information about other fast growing shade trees for Central Texas, and the second has contains tips for when you are ready to purchase your new tree.
More Trees Questions
Norway Pine vs. Norway Spruce
April 28, 2010 - Dear Mr. Smarty Plants,
Is a Norway Pine the same species of tree as a Norway Spruce?
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Plant ID of unknown purchased plant from Boise ID
June 24, 2012 - Hi! I bought a tree that the sales person didnt know what it was. I thought it was a cherry tree and now after about 3-4 yrs I know it is but..How do I know if it is an ornamental tree or real fruit t...
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Oak tree with browning leaves in Brenham TX
August 16, 2011 - I have a large oak tree in my small back yard. I also have a sprinkler so the tree has been receiving some water. Nevertheless, some of the leaves are turning brown in patches. Would drip watering ...
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Replacing mature Arizona Ash trees in Austin
August 26, 2011 - Mr. Smarty Plants,
I have 2 very large, very old Arizona Ash trees in my yard. I want to remove them and replace them with something like Cedar Elm or Chinquapin Oak. The problem is that they are t...
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Can I move my Dwarf Orange tree from California to Florida?
April 12, 2012 - I am moving from California to Florida and have a small dwarf orange tree. Can I bring it with me to Florida? Thanks!
view the full question and answer
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