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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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Tuesday - May 02, 2006

From: Pflugerville, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildflowers
Title: More on bluebonnets
Answered by: Dean Garrett

QUESTION:

How are bluebonnets used by wildlife?

ANSWER:

Bluebonnets are primarily used by insects. Bees consume nectar from the flowers and catterpillars of some species of butterflies rely on the plants for food.

Deer and other grazing mammals usually will not eat bluebonnets.
 

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