Gumbo Limbo

A native of South Florida, the gumbo limbo tree is big and beautiful, with showy red bark and interesting branches low to the ground. It develops unusual red bark that peels back -reminiscent of sunburned skin – which gives gumbo limbo the nickname of “Tourist Tree.” The wood is lightweight, soft and easily – carved – it used to be used to make carousel horses. But in spite of these characteristics of the wood, a gumbo limbo is considered one of the most wind – tolerant trees and can withstand hurricane winds. It’s also popular with wildlife….the berries it produces in summer are a favorite with birds. These trees are drought tolerant once established. They’ll do best with regular irrigation and time to dry out between waterings. At the very least, water during dry spells.