The Plant Bat

Your friendly neighborhood Native Plant nut in Austin, TX

Plant Bat Wishlist

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Plant Bat Wishlist

I have never been to a Black Friday sale yet, but you’ll usually find me first day first hour at the Wildflower Center Plant Sales, jostling with the other Plant Bats to get to the most coveted plants. It’s always the milkweeds — I’ve never successfully procured one at a sale. A freshly prepared bed awaits them now, and Fall 2026 might be it.

I have been lusting after Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum and Fragrant Phlox for a while. Never seen them in person (and hence, no pictures), but their descriptions sound lovely.

Chisos Mountain False Indian Mallow has gorgeous flowers, velvety leaves, and a name I like to say out loud.

I have tried growing Blackfoot Daisy and Wright's Skullcap in the past, but I think I killed them with too much water. I’m going to try again on a slope, with full sun, and no water.

For years I’ve thrown out seeds for Partridge Pea and Tahoka Daisy, but no luck. I suspect the birds are eating them before they can hatch.

What’s on your list?