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
Friday - November 25, 2005
From: Fredericksburg, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Viability of Desert Willow in clay soil in Fredericksburg, TX
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I have recently purchased a house in a new subdivision in Fredericksburg, TX. The lot was not landscaped. I have a small lot (85 X 135), my back yard is about 50 X 85. The soil is a heavy clay. I am considering planting a desert willow. So far I have planted a few vines along the fence, planted three crape myrtles, one vitex and a few sages. I am considering planting a desert willow. I have only seen pictures of them. Can you please tell me if this might be a good choice? I have read about them in a number of sources and have not seen anything negative about them. Please let me know if they do have some negative aspects. Thanks.ANSWER:
Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis) is an excellent choice. It tolerates heat, cold, and drought and will grow in most soils including the heavy clay around Fredericksburg. It is also fast growing and disease resistant; and, besides, it has beautiful flowers and interesting foliage and fruit.
More Trees Questions
Can Live Oak suckers be mowed during Oak Wilt spread season in Austin?
April 12, 2010 - I live in South Austin, not too far from the Wildflower Center. I have a Live Oak in my yard with a substantial amount of sucker growth from the roots. Can I mow them freely throughout the year, or ...
view the full question and answer
Bark problems with Monterrey oak from Austin
September 15, 2012 - I planted a 65 gallon Monterrey Oak (White Oak) in my front yard in February of this year. I water it once a week.
All of the leaves and branches appear very healthy and there is no discoloration....
view the full question and answer
Questions about care and pruning of Mexican Plum and Mountain Laurel in Austin, TX.
January 24, 2012 - I have a couple of questions regarding tree care and pruning.
I have a Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana), about 10 years old or so. I would like to prune it. Is it ok to prune now in late wi...
view the full question and answer
Mimosa shape
November 27, 2007 - I planted a summer chocolate mimosa, and although it has bloomed lovely foliage, it has two main branches growing in a vee shape. Is this normal? Do I need to do anything to spur the growth in a more ...
view the full question and answer
Native specimen tree for Houston, Texas
September 23, 2009 - Looking for recommendations for a specimen tree to flank our front steps. Evergreen, 15 feet tall, maybe 10 feet wide. Will be near icee blue Japanese yews and nearly wild rose bushes. Ideas?
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |