Gumbo Limbo – Winter Fruits

Copperwood, West Indian birch, turpentine tree, and tourist tree are all common names given to gumbo limbo (Bursera simarouba). We saw gumbo limbo – almost leafless – full of fruit on our walk at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge on 3/9/25. The fruit is a small, three-valved capsule that is spread by birds.

Gumbo limbo trees drop their compound leaves during times of drought and other stress like cold temperatures.

Gumbo limbo has another unique adaption: Beautiful, exfoliating bark that is capable of photosynthesis. So, when this tree is leafless, it can still conduct photosynthesis,

Also known as the tourist tree, gumbo limbo can be an excellent addition to your landscape. Just remember that gumbo limbo can grow to be 25 to 50′ tall in tropical locations.