Beautiful peeling trunk, typical of Bursera fagaroides.
Seed after outer coating has split.
Large specimen of Bursera fagaroides.
Club shaped trunk
Foliage and seed pods of Bursera fagaroides.
Larger leafed form of Bursera fagaroides
The genus Bursera contains some of my favorite plants. Most Bursera species can be found in their natural habitat in the southwest US and into Mexico, with most species found in Mexico. They can be found from coastal regions to arid inland deserts. Most grow into small to medium size trees, usually stunted from the extreme environment they live in. Plants growing in coastal ares are found growing low to the ground and windswept being shaped by constant ocean wind. Bursera's have large thick trunks which make them great candidates for succulent bonsai. Seed grown plants can develop thick trunks at a young age. There are several species that are worth searching out and growing, including, Bursera fagaroides, Bursera microphylla, Bursera oderata, Bursera schlechtendalii, Bursera hindsiana, and Bursera epinata. Bursera make a great beginners plant!
Bursera are relatively easy to grow. They prefer a well drained soil, with at least 50 percent inorganic material like pumice or perilite. I grow most of my plants with at least half day sun. They will look better if you can give them full day sun. Growing them "hard" with give them the cool character of a plant grown in its natural environment. I also prune my plants at least two times a year, cutting leggy growth back, this also helps to thicken up the trunk. Keep soil lightly damp between waterings and fertilize as needed. I believe Bursera are best grown from seed. They will develop fat trunks quicker than if grown from cuttings. If your plants form seed pods wait until the pod splits and exposes the brightly colored seed within. The seed with stay attached to the stem which makes harvesting easy. Plant seed into a well drained soil, cover with about half inch soil, and keep damp. Germination is in about 7-10 days. Don't miss growing plants from this genus you will not be disappointed!
