Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Bursera |
Description
Bursera Excelsa, commonly known as the Mexican Elephant Tree or the Palo Escrito, is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 60 feet tall with a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. It is native to Mexico and Central America, and is known for its beautiful, peeling bark that reveals a rainbow of colors underneath.
Appearance
The leaves of the Bursera Excelsa are compound, with each leaf having multiple leaflets that are oval in shape and have a glossy green appearance. The bark of the tree is thin and papery, ranging in color from light green to orange and pink, and peels away easily to reveal a rainbow of colors underneath. The tree also produces small, white flowers that are followed by small, round fruit that turn from green to red when ripe.
Care Guide
The Bursera Excelsa prefers well-draining soil, and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done in the spring if desired. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade, and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bursera Excelsa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and mealybugs can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Bursera Excelsa grows naturally in dry, rocky areas in Mexico and Central America, and is often found in forests and along roadsides. The tree is also commonly planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Bursera Excelsa drought tolerant?
A: Yes, the Bursera Excelsa is drought tolerant once established.
Q: How fast does the Bursera Excelsa grow?
A: The Bursera Excelsa grows at a moderate rate of about 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Can the Bursera Excelsa be grown indoors?
A: While the Bursera Excelsa can be grown indoors, it is not recommended as it requires full sun and can grow quite large.
Q: Is the Bursera Excelsa poisonous?
A: No, the Bursera Excelsa is not poisonous.
Related Plants
- Bursera Microphylla
- Bursera Fagaroides
- Bursera Simaruba
References
- “Bursera Excelsa.” Floridata. Accessed 15 May 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/104.
- “Bursera Excelsa.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed 15 May 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/140979/.
- “Bursera Excelsa.” Desert-Tropicals. Accessed 15 May 2021. https://desert-tropicals.com/plant-encyclopediab/bursera_excelsa.html.
