Bursera simaruba (Gumbo-limbo)

14 years ago

I would like advice on this tree. I orderd the tree about a year ago. I have since cut back three times and im still not happy with the trunk. Can i cut this thing right past the lowest branch. if i do will it send out new shoots. I can not find any good information for this tree. the base of the trunk is a good three inches. The overal hight is about 1.5 feet. and it has what i would call to much movement. id like to creat a broom style. Please help!!!!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

larke
14 years ago
Never heard of it - is it African?
dshepard
Original Author
14 years ago
No its actually native to the carib. islads, and Florida. its almost like a White birch but its a redish color and it constantly peels away. thats why they call it the tourist tree. Get it !! like sunburned visitors...
Related Professionals
Ballwin Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Glendora Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Wixom Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Frisco Landscape Contractors · Bristol Landscape Contractors · Fort Wayne Landscape Contractors · La Mirada Landscape Contractors · South Portland Landscape Contractors · Tavares Landscape Contractors · White Bear Lake Landscape Contractors · Atlantic City Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Frederick Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Hershey Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Owings Mills Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Waukesha Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures
Jack Reynolds
14 years ago
I have a Bursera simplicifolia which is native to Mexico and I prune it as required to mainatin a windswept style. I would be reluctant to cut it back as severly as you are suggesting. If the tree has a lot of movement as you say why not use it to advantage. If you do stump it off as you are suggesting it will probably live but it might be a long time before you had anything like a bonsai out of it. Jack
dshepard
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks for the reply jack,
I dont have much of a bonsai now.Lol. If i wanted a large bonsai, Im sure i have good material. Im just thinking a shorter tree with this size trunk would be awsome. This is the problem with ordering trees. But hey atleast it came healthy...