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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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Friday - February 12, 2010

From: Somerset , MA
Region: Northeast
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Non-native Chamaedorea cataractarum question from Somerset MA
Answered by: Barbara Medford and Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

I have a Chamaedorea Cataractarum palm and I was wondering what a clumping palm is. From what part of the plant do the new fronds emerge? Was trying to look all over the web but can't find it. If you could let me know it will be very much appreciated.

ANSWER:

Chamaedorea cataractarum, cat palm, is native to Northeastern Mexico. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is dedicated to the use, care and protection of plants native not only to North America (excluding Mexico) but to the area in which they are  being grown. Most indoor plants are non-natives, as only tropical plants can endure the extreme conditions indoors. We did find a website where you should be able to get some good information-The Palm Society Northern California Chapter. Clumping palms - not to be confused with clumping bamboos-are species that form multiple stems or trunks. 

 
 

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