Native Plants
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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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Saturday - August 31, 2013
From: AUSTIN, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Privacy Screening, Vines
Title: Fence Vines for Austin, TX
Answered by: Larry Larson
QUESTION:
Hi, What are the best high density vine plants for coverage on chain link fence in Austin, TX? Thank youANSWER:
There are 15 Native Vines recommended for Austin [I actually used the recommended species for the Edwards Plateau Ecoregion]
Of those, these four are most notable towards your request for high density on a fence.
Vitis mustangensis (Mustang grape) is the vine you see draping trees and fences in the Hill Country, and would be good for your purpose.
Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia creeper) is cited as a vigorous grower.
Campsis radicans (Trumpet creeper) is another aggressive grower, its invasive qualities have earned it the names Hellvine and Devils Shoestring. Its rapid colonization by suckers and layering makes it useful for erosion control. [Maybe a bit too aggresive]
Clematis texensis (Scarlet clematis) is attractive for its red flowers and grows to a good height [It is relativelly non-agressive as compared to the above]
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