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
Wednesday - May 02, 2012
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Shrubs
Title: White blooms on Rose Pavonia from Austin
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
Hi Mr. Smarty Plants, I've planted my entire South Austin garden with natives from your excellent recommendations and I wanted to thank you, the garden is just beautiful! So here is my question, this morning as I strolled around I noticed one of my stunning Rock Rose, pavonoa lasiopetala, has not only rose colored blooms but full white as well. This particular plant is a volunteer from seed. I've read all the descriptions on Rock Rose and have not seen mention of white blooms. Just curious, is the white bloom normal? It is definitely a treat and I look forward to it seeding out!ANSWER:
That is the kind of comment we love to hear. Until they hear about this kind of results from real gardeners, many people don't believe that the use of natives is the way to go. Thank you!
In answer to your question, no, this is not normal to have a white flower on Pavonia lasiopetala (Rock rose). We looked at several sources and they all cited pink flowers. However, (there is always an "however") when we went to our Image Gallery, we found several pictures with white flowers on this plant. So, we're thinking someone found a Rose Pavonia with white flowers, took pictures of it, and submitted the pictures for our Gallery. Or the lighting could have been bad, who knows? The point is, we would suggest that if you wish to see more of that particular color, that you propagate that bush by softwood cuttings, rather than seeds, to have a better chance of repetition.
From the Image Gallery
More Shrubs Questions
Shrubs with sparse leaves and flowers for creek in Idaho
September 01, 2009 - I am looking for several shrubs that have spindly limbs and sparse leaves with flowers. The idea is to place them in front of windows or other views to add a lacey/veiled effect for the observer. I li...
view the full question and answer
Deer resistant, Shaded Privacy Hedge for Wakefield RI
September 12, 2013 - We recently removed the dead undergrowth of white pines that were used for privacy. We need advice as to what type of evergreen would be suitable for growth beneath the branches above. It is VERY shad...
view the full question and answer
Non-blooming Dwarf Shrub and Agave Flowers
February 18, 2013 - I have two questions. I need a symmetrical dwarf shrub for full sun in Austin area that is non-flowering. Can you recommend some? And do agaves always flower when they are about 10 years and then die?
view the full question and answer
Using a brush hog on acreage on Bear Creek in Austin, TX.
July 25, 2012 - We have 8 acres off 1826 situated on Bear Creek. It has open areas with scattered large trees (cedar elm, live oak, white oak). Cedars or junipers only along the the lot lines. We've been told we...
view the full question and answer
Juniperus Toxic to Pets?
October 15, 2013 - Are blue rug juniper plants toxic to dogs?
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |