Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg.
Gumbo-limbo / Naked Indian / Tourist tree
Fast-growing tree with very ornamental, shiny copper-red bark, known in Florida and the Caribbean as 'gumbo-limbo' and colloquially as 'tourist tree' for its peeling bark (like tourists getting sunburned). It is the most widely distributed Bursera species in the genus, ranging from Mexico to northern South America. Extremely hurricane-resistant and widely used in ecological restoration and tropical landscaping.
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© Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Bursera |
| Growth Habit | Medium to large tree, semi-deciduous or deciduous in dry season; very striking copper-red bark; can grow 1-2 m per year in tropical climates |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) — IUCN |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 8.5 |
| Type | Well-drained calcareous, sandy and rocky soils; tolerant of coastal saline soils |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Well-drained calcareous, sandy and rocky soils; tolerant of coastal saline soils
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
F
T
Every 2-3 years or when roots fill the entire volume
Monthly during growth with balanced fertilizer; no fertilization during dormancy
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic; resin and leaves used medicinally with no reported toxicity
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Plant Health
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"One of the easiest Bursera to propagate: simply stick a thick branch in moist soil to root. Resistant to category 4-5 hurricanes due to its flexible wood. Very useful as a quick visual screen in tropical gardens."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.