Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
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 is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Monday - March 30, 2009
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Seed and Plant Sources
Title: Are Texas mallows the source of marshmallows?
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
Did marshmallows that we eat originate from our native Texas mallow plants?ANSWER:
No, but you're on the right track! The origin of marshmallows as we know them today is not known with certainty, but the source is believed to be Althaea officinalis, Marsh mallow or Common marsh-mallow, a native of Africa and Europe. The pith of this plant, mixed with sugar and cooked, was used in early marshmallow recipes.
More Seed and Plant Sources Questions
Plants for centerpieces that can be planted in a garden
August 14, 2009 - I want to purchase flowers in Crossville, Tennessee to use as centerpieces and then plant in my garden. What are the best suggestions to do so?
view the full question and answer
Need a source for 100 lbs of Bluebonnet seeds.
April 16, 2010 - Where can one buy 100 lbs (yes lbs) of bluebonnet seeds? Any suggestions on where I can most economically do so? Trying to spread the love :)
view the full question and answer
Source of non-native Cutweed from Burbank CA
January 22, 2010 - Where to find Cutweed in southern California? If not, which nursery sell cutweed? or any cutweed powder to buy?
view the full question and answer
Sources of Hypericum anagalloides (tinkekrs penny)
March 23, 2007 - I am currently in search of any place where I may be able to purchase some of the Tinker's Penny. Could you please assist with this in any way possible? Greatly appreciated.
view the full question and answer
Sources for native trees in New Braunfels TX
November 28, 2010 - I live just north of New Braunfels in the Hill Country. I would like to plant the following trees this December:
Anacacho Orchid Tree, American Smoke Tree, Golden Leadball Tree, and perhaps a Laceba...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |