Gumbo limbo
Bursera simaruba · Burseraceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around gumbo limbo and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (discreet flowers, small and whitish)
- Adult size
- 10 to 15 m in height
- Growth
- Fast to moderate
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, tropical and subtropical climate (USDA 10-12)
- Origin
- Central America and the Caribbean
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerates poor and sandy soils
Care
Exposure and climate
White gumbo-limbo demands full sun exposure and warm conditions to thrive. It fears temperatures below 10°C and must be grown in full sun to develop its optimal form and vigor.
Watering
During the growing season, keep the soil regularly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, white gumbo-limbo tolerates dry periods and handles dry soils well. Reduce watering during the dry season or winter.
Soil and drainage
Well-drained, light soil is essential; the tree accepts poor, sandy or rocky soils. Avoid waterlogging which promotes root rot. Adding organic matter at planting helps establishment.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. On very poor soils, light annual feeding stimulates growth. Favor moderate applications: this tree doesn't need much.
Pruning and structure
Pruning is not necessary except to remove dead or diseased branches. The tree branches naturally and forms a beautiful crown if left to grow freely. Intervene in late winter on an established mature tree.
Pests and diseases
White gumbo-limbo is generally robust. Watch for scale insects and aphids in warm climates, especially under glass. Waterlogged soil and stagnant humidity can promote fungal issues; ensure optimal drainage.
Did you know?
White gumbo-limbo produces an aromatic resin traditionally used in Caribbean and Latin American pharmacopoeia. Its smooth, pale bark, often reddish, makes it very recognizable and gave the tree its common name. In Haiti and the Dominican Republic, this tree has been valued for its medicinal properties for centuries.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.