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Description
Bursera Multijuga, commonly known as the Paper Bark Tree, is a deciduous tree native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the Burseraceae family and is known for its paper-thin, peeling bark that reveals a smooth greenish-white layer underneath. The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a spread of about 5-10 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Bursera |
Appearance
The Paper Bark Tree has a slender trunk that can grow up to 60 cm in diameter. Its bark is papery and peels in thin sheets, revealing a smooth greenish-white layer underneath. The tree has compound leaves that are pinnate and can be up to 50 cm long. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the tree produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the Paper Bark Tree is a round, fleshy drupe that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: The Paper Bark Tree prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but it’s best to keep the soil moist.Fertilization: The tree does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.Soil: The Paper Bark Tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Paper Bark Tree is hardy in USDA zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Paper Bark Tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it is susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained. It can also be affected by scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Paper Bark Tree is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in dry forests and thornscrub. It can also be found in coastal areas and on rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Paper Bark Tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering and may not reach its full height.Q: Is the Paper Bark Tree fast-growing?
A: The tree is considered moderately fast-growing, with an average growth rate of about 1-2 feet per year.Q: Does the Paper Bark Tree have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the tree’s resin has been used for medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory infections and skin conditions.Q: Is the Paper Bark Tree drought tolerant?
A: The tree can tolerate short periods of drought, but it prefers moderate watering.
Related Plants
– Bursera Fagaroides- Bursera Graveolens- Bursera Simaruba- Bursera Microphylla- Bursera Bipinnata
References
– “Bursera Multijuga.” Floridata. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/787.- “Bursera Multijuga.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279013.- “Bursera Multijuga.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 10, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:127490-2.
