Bursera simaruba
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| Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg. |
Bursera simaruba (Gumbo-limbo; syn. B. gummifera, Pistacia simaruba L.) is a species in the family Burseraceae, native to tropical regions of the Americas from the southeasternmost United States (southern Florida) south through Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil and Venezuela.
It is a small to medium-sized tree growing to 25 m tall. The leaves are spirally arranged, pinnate with 7-11 leaflets, each leaflet broad ovate, 4-10 cm long and 2-5 cm broad.
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[edit] Uses
This plant has well adapted to several kinds of habitats, which included salt and calcareous soils, because that gumbo-limbo is used like a street tree in coastal areas. In addition, Gumbo-limbo is also considered one of the most wind-tolerant trees, and it is recommended as a good, hurricane-resistant species in south Florida. Hexane extracts of the leaves have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties in animal models. Its bark is also considered an antidote to Metopium toxiferum which often grows in the same habitat and can cause extreme rashes similar to poison ivy.
[edit] "The Tourist Tree"
The Gumbo-limbo is often referred to as the "Tourist Tree". The reason for this is the fact that the tree is red, and its bark is peeling.
[edit] Public Park, Boca Raton, Florida
The Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex comprises twenty acres of Boca Raton's Red Reef park which have been reserved as a nature center and for the preservation of a natural plant environment known as a tropical hammock. On display are coastal relics from Pre-Columbian Indians, a cannon and anchors from shipwrecked sailing vessels, outdoor aquariums, indoor and outdoor classrooms and interpretive displays. A butterfly garden and a 40-foot high observation tower provide tranquil views and panoramic vistas. An elevated boardwalk courses through the hammock and mangroves offering unique opportunities for environmental education.
