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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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Saturday - October 15, 2005

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Container Gardens
Title: Plant Care for Plumeria
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

I have a plumeria that is getting too tall for my small patio. How I should cut it back and can start the cuttings into new plants? Does the original plant need any special care when it is cut back?

ANSWER:

Plumeria spp. or Frangipani are native to the Caribbean, tropical Pacific Islands, South America, and Mexico. Our interest and expertise at the Wildflower Center is native North American plants; however, we can guide you to sources that can help you care for this beautiful non-native. The Plumeria Society of America, Inc. is an excellent source for information on care. Among the titles offered in the Plumeria Care Bulletins are "Pruning and Shaping Your Container Grown Plumeria" and "Plumeria Cuttings: Making and Rooting".
 

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