Gumbo Limbo

Gumbo Limbo, Tourist Tree, Living fence post Tree

Botanical Name: Bursera simaruba   

Description (growth habits, light requirements & care): A fast-growing, semi-evergreen tree reaching up to 30 feet plus, but can also be grown to be a smaller 8-15 foot tree. Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers sandy, well-drained soils. Drought-tolerant and wind-resistant, making it ideal for coastal areas. Can be grown is small confined areas, medians, along sidewalks, in containers, this tree is versatile.

How you can help by planting this: Provides berries for birds, including migratory species, and enhances native ecosystems. Larval host for Dingy Purplewing. Attracts bees and other insect pollinators. Berries are hidden in capsules that can only be opened by birds with ample bill strength, but after the capsule ripens, they open to display the pinkish fruit that migratory birds feast on spring and fall  

Flower and Fruit (color, characteristics, season): Small, greenish flowers bloom in spring, followed by clusters of reddish berries in summer and fall.  

Pairs well with: various Stoppers, Seagrape, Bay Cedar, Cocoplum, Green Buttonwood, Soilderwood, Wild Lime, Wild Tamarind.