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fragrant bursera

Scientific Name: Bursera fagaroides var. elongata

Family: Burseraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Bursera fagaroides: The Fragrant Bursera

Bursera fagaroides, also known as torchwood copal, fragrant bursera, or elephant tree, is a fascinating plant species with a distinctive growth habit and intriguing uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant can develop a swollen trunk (caudex).
  • Some species of Bursera produce sap (resin) that is sold as frankincense.
  • The plant has fragrant leaves.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl.
  • Family: Burseraceae (the same family as frankincense and myrrh)
  • Synonyms: Bursera obovata, Bursera scheffneri, Elaphrium fagaroides
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species, with a recognized variety: Bursera fagaroides var. elongata

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Northwestern Mexico and Southern Arizona.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Typically grows as a shrub or small tree, ranging from 1 to 5 feet tall, but can grow taller with irrigation.
  • Develops a thick, swollen trunk (caudex).
  • Has alternate, pinnate leaves.
  • The leaves are oval and compound.

Ecological Role

  • Its flowers provide a wonderful fragrance that attracts native animals (referencing Bursera filicifolia in Baja California).

Traditional Uses

  • The dried sap of some Bursera species is sold as frankincense.
  • Mexican copal derives from several Bursera species.
  • Its wood is sometimes used for carving (referencing Bursera graveolens, Palo Santo).

Quirky Facts

  • The plant is named "elephant tree" because of its thick, swollen trunk (caudex) that resembles an elephant's foot.
  • It is suitable for bonsai cultivation.

Further Information

  • GRIN Taxonomy Database
  • ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)
  • USDA Hardiness Zones Interactive Native Range Distribution Map
  • Discover Life Database
  • B and T World Seeds