Gumbo Limbo

Gumbo limbo (*Bursera simaruba*) is a large, semi-evergreen tree with a broad, irregular crown and peeling copper-colored bark. It is native to south Florida and the tropical Americas and provides shade where there is room for its mature size. ## Identity and growing conditions The [University of Florida IFAS profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST104?downloadOpen=true) describes a typical landscape tree 25–40 ft tall and 25–30 ft wide, with potential height and spread approaching 50 ft. Its odd-pinnate leaves have 3–9 leaflets; pale green or white flowers appear in spring, followed by red fruit. The smooth bark peels in thin layers. UF/IFAS reports high drought, strong-wind, and aerosol salt tolerance, recommends full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, and lists USDA zones 10B–11. ## Siting Choose a sunny or partly shaded site with adequate drainage and generous room for the crown. The published size describes a large landscape tree, not a compact shrub. ## Maintenance UF/IFAS describes limited routine pruning, mainly removing low branches that interfere with clearance. Water during establishment and avoid overwatering established trees.