They achieve this size relatively quickly with an average life span for the tree is about 100 years. Gumbo Limbo trees can reach heights of 30-40 feet with a canopy of 60 feet. They require little care or maintenance if planted in its native soil. They are Floridian! These trees are native to Florida and its environment.For best results fertilize it 2 to 3 times a year with a granular fertilizer at the change or the seasons.If that is impossible then make sure it has time to dry out between watering. Try to plant it away from irrigation or sprinklers. Once it starts to gain height only water it in times of extreme drought. Water occasionally as it starts to take root and grow. Gumbo Limbos are drought resistant and are adapted to Florida’s climate. This will provide stability as the new tree puts out roots. When planting dig a deep enough hole to bury at least a quarter of the branch or clipping. They love the sun! Gumbo Limbos prefer direct sunlight or can grow in partial shade.Select the perfect spot! Gumbo Limbos grow fast and large so pick a spot at least 15-20 feet away from a structure or public walkways or roads.Here are some guidelines for planting a Gumbo Limbo from a clipping or branch: The prolific trees can grow either from a seed or by directly planting a branch of the tree into the ground. They exist only in temperate tropical climates and do not usually grow further north than the Southern Tampa bay region of Florida.
One thing is for sure, you can always find a majestic gumbo limbo or two along the Eagle Trail or Black Island Trail.Gumbo Limbo trees are a soft wood tropical climate tree native to Southern Florida and the Caribbean. You never know what sights you might encounter. Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration, conserving water, preserving soil, and supporting wildlife.Ĭonsider spending a day in Lovers Key State Park. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and release oxygen back into the air. In a single day, one large tree can absorb up to 100 gallons of water out of the ground and release it into the air. Their benefits are almost too numerous to mention, but here are just a few to keep in mind. However, the gumbo limbo tree is more than just a pretty face or interesting piece of peeling bark. Easy to spot and intriguing to view, these trees enhance the beautiful landscape along the Black Island Trail and Eagle Trail. Several stunning specimens grow strong and sturdy at Lovers Key State Park. Department of Agriculture, Florida is the only state in which this tree grows naturally. The gumbo limbo tree is native to South Florida, as well as parts of Mexico, Central America, and the northern regions of South America. (Please note: Never remove plants or plant parts during your visit to the park.) But ironically, its bark is actually used as a remedy for sunburn, insect bites, and rashes in some parts of the world.
Many people refer to the gumbo limbo as the “tourist tree,” due to its resemblance to someone who stayed out in the sun too long. The gumbo limbo produces a dark red elliptic fruit (about ½ inch long), a favorite food of kingbirds, flycatchers and other birds. It drops its leaves in early spring and during dry spells. This wonderful specimen thrives with minimal care and grows quickly.
However, you may purchase plenty of other yummy treats from the concession stand during your visit).įormally known as Bursera simaruba, the gumbo limbo tree is easily recognizable by its peeling coppery red bark. (Just to set the record straight, Lovers Key State Park does not sell gumbo. And while there is plenty of (live) seafood swimming around the lovely beaches of Lovers Key, you certainly won’t find it in the gumbo limbo tree. She mentioned that she loves plenty of seafood in her gumbo - is that how they make it at Lovers Key? The gumbo limbo is sometimes called the ‘tourist tree.’When I excitedly told a group of friends that I had encountered plenty of gumbo limbo at Lovers Key State Park, one woman piped up with a question.
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