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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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Tuesday - November 25, 2014

From: Tucson, AZ
Region: Southwest
Topic: Privacy Screening, Shrubs, Trees
Title: Seven foot privacy fence in Tucson
Answered by: Guy Thompson

QUESTION:

I am looking for a privacy hedge for a home in Tucson, Arizona that will be in full sun. Needs to be at least seven foot tall and low water and maintenance. Any suggestions.

ANSWER:

If you want a dense foliage in a tree that will continue to grow to more that 40 feet, consider Hesperocyparis arizonica (Arizona cypress).  If you prefer a smaller (but not quite so dense) plant, Arctostaphylos patula (Greenleaf manzanita)Arctostaphylos pungens (Pointleaf manzanita)Cercocarpus montanus var. glaber (Smooth mountain mahogany), or Artemisia tridentata (Big sagebrush) should be considered.

You should be able to find many of these plants at your local plant nurseries.

 

 

From the Image Gallery


Arizona cypress
Hesperocyparis arizonica

Greenleaf manzanita
Arctostaphylos patula

Pointleaf manzanita
Arctostaphylos pungens

Big sagebrush
Artemisia tridentata

Whitethorn acacia
Vachellia constricta

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