Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree)

Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with small green leaves and thin reddish brown stems close up.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with small green leaves and thin reddish brown stems close up.

Botanical name: Bursera microphylla

Common names: Elephant Tree, Torote Colorado, Copal

Family: Burseraceae

Origin: Southern California, Mexico

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-11

Small tree 10-20 ftPlant with caudexPlant used for bonsaiPlant form: Small tree; plant with caudex; suitable for bonsai
Plant mature sizeMature height: 10-20 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Moderate
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Deciduous plantFoliage: Deciduous
Fragrant plantFragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant
Ethnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

It can be used as a bonsai specimen and can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11. It makes an attractive, small tree that is 10-20 ft tall.

The Elephant Tree is a beautiful, deciduous plant that is native to Southern California and Mexico. Its distinct feature is its swollen, succulent caudex and a tall, twisting trunk that gives it the appearance of a miniature Elephant. Its pinnate leaves are fragrant and have a strong scent of camphor.

The Elephant Tree can thrive in full sun and semi-shade. It prefers moderate water. Despite its capacity to withstand droughts, it must not be kept constantly dry or moist for too long. The plant is especially useful for xeriscaping or for adding flavor to a garden. It is sure to be a standout in all types of landscapes.

It can be used as a bonsai specimen, as its propensity for drought resistance enables it to withstand harsh growing conditions. For bonsai enthusiasts, the Elephant Tree offers a truly unique addition to the garden.

The Elephant Tree is a popular ethnomedical plant with immense potential in healing and treating symptoms. Its roots and leaves are used as a source of medicinal compounds, such as Gum Burseran, a type of resin extracted from its bark.

Growing the Elephant Tree in a pot in cold regions is possible. However, the plant must be kept warm during the colder months. It should be placed in a sunny location to provide the light and heat it needs. The soil should be kept moist, and the plant should be fertilized every two months. To guarantee its survival, it is recommended to use a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots and to ensure they don't get too dry during winter. Moreover, potted specimens must be ensured that they don't experience great fluctuations in temperature.

Similar plants: Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree)


Image gallery: 8 images
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with gray trunk and thick roots inside black plastic plant pot
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) trunk base with thick roots emerging from soil in black container
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with small yellow flowers and green pinnate leaves on branch
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with delicate yellow flowers and fine green pinnate foliage on branch
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with dense green leaves growing on small slender woody branches.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with many tiny, oblong, green leaflets growing along thin central stems.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with thick tan peeling bark on a multi-trunk tree structure
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with thick tan peeling bark on a complex multi-trunk tree structure
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) vibrant green leaves on thin red stem close up image
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with delicate pinnate leaves growing on a reddish colored stem.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) yellow flower close up with tiny green leaves on branch
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) yellow flower nestled among small pinnate green leaves on woody branch
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with white bark and small green leaves, yellow flower plant.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with thick white bark, tiny green foliage, and yellow flower clusters.
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with brown bark and green leaves on an intricate tree
Bursera microphylla (Elephant Tree) with twisting brown branches and small green leaves throughout the crown


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