Elephant Tree (Bursera fagaroides)

Elephant Tree

Bursera fagaroides

Its peeling papery bark reveals cinnamon tones, a desert survivor with quiet resilience. Deciduous small tree; common name: Elephant Tree.

Full sun
0–1/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Requires full sun exposure; tolerates intense desert heat and direct sunlight
💧
Watering Infrequent deep watering; allow soil to fully dry between sessions to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives in hot, arid conditions; tolerates brief light frost (down to 5°C) but prefers consistent warm temperatures
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, pinnately compound leaves with 3–5 leaflets; bright green, aromatic when crushed
  • Bark: Papery, peeling outer layers; inner bark is reddish-brown with cinnamon-like scent
  • Flower: Tiny, creamy-white to pale yellow star-shaped blooms in clusters
  • Fruit: Small, round, reddish-brown drupe when mature
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Deep water every 2–3 weeks; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted low-nitrogen feed once every 2 months. Use diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain natural sculptural form
  • Thin overcrowded growth to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Avoid heavy pruning; the tree has a naturally compact, multi-branched shape
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aromatic bark used in traditional medicine; ornamental desert landscaping