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 - July 31, 2012
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders, Pests, Trees
Title: Demise of Flameleaf Sumac in Austin, TX.
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
My Flameleaf Sumac suddenly died. Beetles came out around the trunk when I cut it down. How can I prevent this on the other sumac?ANSWER:
Flame-leaf Sumac Rhus lanceolata (Prairie flameleaf sumac) is a small deciduous tree with outstanding fall foliage that lives up to the name “flame-leaf”. It is described as a relatively fast growing tree, heat- cold- and drought tolerant, and generally pest and disease free.
Were there any major changes in the tree’s environment that precede its demise?
Mr. Smarty Plants suggests that you contact the folks at the Travis County office of Texas AgriLife Extension to have someone look at your tree and perhaps identify the beetles that you found. If they are the culprit, then some insecticide may be needed to protect your other Sumac.
More Diseases and Disorders Questions
Declining wax myrtles in Katy, TX
August 24, 2009 - My wax myrtle bushes were thick and green except for a few on the NE side 6 months ago when we bought the house. Now they are thin, leggy, and dropping leaves like crazy. They seem to be dying one bra...
view the full question and answer
Why doesn't Diervilla lonicera bloom in Wisconsin?
June 11, 2015 - I have had a Diervilla lonicera in southeastern Wisconsin for at least 5 years. It has never bloomed. Why? It appears healthy.
view the full question and answer
Failure to thrive of Tex-ash in Tucson AZ
December 02, 2011 - I planted a mature (15') Tex-Ash about a year ago. Lately more and more leaves seem to be browning and it has never filled out. I am concerned I am going to lose it if I don't get it something befor...
view the full question and answer
Care of Live Oaks
July 11, 2012 - We have Two Young Live Oaks in the front of Our home. We had them treated for insects, ect. Now what can we do to make them Full Green and Happy Happy Happy again.Thank You
view the full question and answer
Dying Pine Trees in Texas
October 05, 2009 - I live on the water front street in Kemah, Texas. We took water in the entire neighborhood during Hurricane Ike. That's been a year ago and now I have noticed our pines trees are starting to die. I s...
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |