Bursera Microphylla

Description

Bursera Microphylla, also known as the Elephant Tree, is a plant species that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, specifically in the Sonoran and Mojave deserts. The plant is named after its thick, grayish-brown bark, which has a wrinkled texture resembling an elephant’s skin.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Elephant Tree is a small tree or shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height. Its leaves are small, oval-shaped, and have a glossy green color. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by small, round fruit that turns red when ripe. The bark of the tree is thick and grayish-brown, with a wrinkled texture that resembles an elephant’s skin.

Care Guide

Water

The Elephant Tree is drought-tolerant and can survive in hot, dry climates. However, it still requires regular watering during the summer months, especially if it is planted in a container. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the spring to promote healthy growth.

Soil

The Elephant Tree prefers well-draining soil, such as sandy or rocky soil. It can also tolerate alkaline soil.

Sunlight

The plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

The Elephant Tree can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Elephant Tree is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

The Elephant Tree is native to the Sonoran and Mojave deserts in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in canyons, washes, and hillsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Elephant Tree survive in cold climates?

A: No, the plant cannot survive in cold climates. It is only suitable for hardiness zones 9-11.

Q: How often should I water the Elephant Tree?

A: Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize the Elephant Tree?

A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the spring to promote healthy growth.

Q: What should I do if my Elephant Tree is infested with spider mites?

A: To prevent infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Related Plants

• Bursera Fagaroides
• Bursera Graveolens
• Bursera Hindsiana
• Bursera Serrata

References

• “Bursera microphylla.” Desert-Tropicals.com. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Burseraceae/Bursera_microphylla.html.
• “Bursera microphylla.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BUMI4.
• “Bursera microphylla.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BUMI4.