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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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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Thursday - October 25, 2012

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Invasive Plants, Non-Natives, Vines
Title: Non-native, invasive Asiatic Jasmine from Austin
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

Is Trachelospermum asiaticum considered a native texas plant? Is there an example growing at the Center that can be viewed?

ANSWER:

Nope. The "asiaticum" in the name should tip you off. Furthermore, it is extremely invasive and can completely take over a garden area, almost impossible to eradicate. We suggest you read this Dave's Garden forum on this plant, particularly the negative comments. We hope that you would never, ever be able to view it in the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Trachelospermum asiaticum (Asiatic Jasmine) is native to southern and eastern Asia.

 

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