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
Tuesday - February 08, 2011
From: Houston, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Trees
Title: Nuttall oak to replace ornamental pears in Houston, TX?
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
We recently bought a house in the heart of Houston that has 2 huge flaming pear trees that were planted too close to the house and just engulf the house. Our landscaper suggested taking them out and plant a Nuttall oak tree. Do you agree or have any other suggestions? Thanks!ANSWER:
Though we're not familiar with the term, flaming pear, we are guessing you're referring to one of the ornamental pears or Asian origin. Among the most common and potentially costliest landscaping mistakes is the planting of trees too close to structures. When siting a new tree, its ultimate height and spread should always be primary considerations.
Quercus texana (Nuttall oak) would be a good choice for your area - it's native to Houston and much of the southeastern US - if the size of your yard and other factors allow for it. Like most red oaks, it is fairly fast-growing and provides excellent shade and attractive late-fall leaf color. Large deciduous trees, like Nutall oak, are particular welcome additions to landscapes on the western side of homes where they provide cooling afternoon shade in summer.
More Trees Questions
Inquiry about the Arizona Cypress trees in the Family Garden
March 20, 2015 - Dear Mr. Smarty Plants,
I recently visited The Wildflower Center and enjoyed seeing several features that were new since my last visit two years ago. In the Family Garden areas I saw several beautifu...
view the full question and answer
Water-loving evergreen for Chicago
April 21, 2008 - Is there a water loving evergreen that will do well in the Chicago weather?
view the full question and answer
Is Magnolia virginiana (Sweetbay) a major nectar source for honeybees?
January 31, 2015 - Is the Sweetbay Magnolia a major nectar source for honeybees?
view the full question and answer
Which native palms survived severe cold from Las Cruces NM
June 12, 2011 - Can you tell me which of the north American native palms survived the severe cold last year that hit El Paso and Las Cruces?
view the full question and answer
Spots on persimmon tree leaves from Dripping Springs TX
July 10, 2013 - We are in rural Hays County Texas off Hamilton Pool Rd Texas. Large persimmon trees are turning yellow, blackish spots on underside of leaves. What do we do?
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |