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Description
Bursera Simaruba, commonly known as the gumbo-limbo tree, is a tropical tree species that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, where it is revered for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. The tree is characterized by its reddish-brown bark that peels off like paper, revealing a smooth, greenish layer underneath. Its leaves are compound and consist of 11-21 leaflets that are ovate or elliptical in shape. The gumbo-limbo tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that grow in racemes, followed by small, round fruits that turn red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Bursera |
Appearance
The gumbo-limbo tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and 60 centimeters in diameter. Its trunk is often twisted and fluted, giving it a unique and intriguing appearance. The bark of the tree is smooth, thin, and papery, with a reddish-brown color that peels off in thin sheets, revealing a greenish layer underneath. The leaves of the gumbo-limbo tree are compound and consist of 11-21 ovate or elliptical leaflets, with a glossy green color on the upper side and a lighter shade of green on the underside. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that grow in racemes, followed by small, round fruits that turn red when ripe.
Care Guide
Water: The gumbo-limbo tree prefers moist but well-drained soil. It requires regular watering during its growing season, but it can tolerate brief periods of drought.Fertilization: The gumbo-limbo tree responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply it once every six months during the growing season.Soil: The gumbo-limbo tree thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.Sunlight: The gumbo-limbo tree prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The gumbo-limbo tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The gumbo-limbo tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. To control these pests, use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the tree is grown in well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The gumbo-limbo tree is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soil and thrives in both coastal and inland areas. The tree is often found growing in disturbed areas, such as abandoned fields and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the gumbo-limbo tree drought-tolerant?
A: While the gumbo-limbo tree prefers moist soil, it can tolerate brief periods of drought.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the gumbo-limbo tree?
A: The gumbo-limbo tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.Q: What is the average lifespan of the gumbo-limbo tree?
A: The gumbo-limbo tree can live up to 50 years or more, depending on its growing conditions.Q: What is the medicinal value of the gumbo-limbo tree?
A: The gumbo-limbo tree has a long history of medicinal use in traditional medicine. Its bark and resin are used to treat a variety of ailments, such as wounds, fever, and respiratory infections.
Related Plants
- Bursera Graveolens
- Bursera Microphylla
- Bursera Fagaroides
- Bursera Simaruba var. Simaruba
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/global/iitf/pdf/shrubs/Bursera%20simaruba.pdf
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST249
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/10392
