Gumbo Limbo Shade Tree
Plant Details
- Common Name: Gumbo Limbo
- Scientific Name: Bursera simaruba
- Zone: 10B-11
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Salt Tolerance:
- Drought Tol: Moderate
- Typical Height: 30-40 ft.
Advantages
Advantages not foundAbout The Gumbo Limbo
Gumbo Limbo is a tree species in the Burseraceae family. It is native to South Florida, Brazil, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. It is a semi-evergreen tree. The wood of the tree is popularly used to make carousel horses. The leaves of this tree have medicinal properties and are used to treat skin problems, wounds, and fevers.
Appearance
Gumbo has a moderate height of up to 30 meters. The leaves are spirally arranged and pinnate with 7-11 leaflets. The bark of the tree is thin and shiny dark red. The red bark peels back after a particular time which gives it the name “Tourist Tree.” The thick branches are very low staying near the ground.
Growing Conditions and Care
Gumbo Limbo is a low-maintenance tree. It should be grown in open outdoor spaces as it needs a wide area to explore its branches and roots. The tree performs best in well-drained, slightly moist to dry soil. The tree can also tolerate clay, loamy, or sandy soil but is not soggy.
The tree prefers full sun to grow well but can also tolerate partial shade. However, the plant grows quickly if grown in an area receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight. These hardy and tough trees can survive in USDA zones 10B through 11. Branches get loaded with green and white blossoms in late fall or spring.
As we discussed, it is a low-maintenance tree requiring the least care. However, fertilizing the tree with granular fertilizer once a year can maintain its growth and health. The species is highly resistant to pests and diseases.
Come and Get The Gumbo Limbo for your Landscape
If you are looking for a trusted nursery providing high-quality Gumbo Limbo in Florida, call JMC Landscaping to know if this tree is currently available with us. You may also visit our Garden Center in Pine Island to choose your favorite plant by yourself. We also provide landscaping services in Cape Coral, Naples, Fort Myers, and all of Southwest Florida. We have a group of experienced landscapers providing high-class landscaping services. Visit us today to turn your backyard into a beautiful landscape.
