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.

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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 - August 22, 2005

From: Fair Lawn, NJ
Region: Mid-Atlantic
Topic: Seed and Plant Sources
Title: Smarty Plants on basketplant
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

I want to buy a basketplant (Callisia fragrans). Do you know where can I buy it?

ANSWER:

The basketplant (Callisia fragrans) was introduced from Central America and is not native to North America. As such, it is listed in Florida as a Category II invasive exotic. Although it would not likely survive a New Jersey winter, because of its invasive potential you should consider it only as a houseplant. You should be able to locate it by calling nurseries in your area or by searching on the internet. If you visit the National Suppliers Directory on the Wildflower Center web page, you can find lists of nurseries in New Jersey or the Mid-Atlantic region that specialize in native plants.

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Monday - August 22, 2005

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