Bursera Fagaroides

Bursera fagaroides – The Majestic Elephant Tree

Step into the fascinating world of Bursera fagaroides, affectionately known as the Elephant Tree. Native to the arid landscapes of Mexico and the American Southwest, this sculptural species is admired for its twisted trunk, aromatic resin, and cultural significance. More than just a tree, it's a living symbol of resilience, tradition, and desert beauty.

🌳 Distinctive Growth Habit

• Twisted, Textured Trunk
  Its gnarled, contorted trunk—resembling the rough hide of an elephant—is a true botanical sculpture, giving the tree its memorable name and natural allure.

• Water-Wise Foliage
  Small, deciduous leaves help the tree conserve moisture and withstand intense heat, making it perfectly adapted to desert environments.

🌼 Subtle, Seasonal Blooms

• Delicate Flower Clusters
  In late spring to early summer, clusters of tiny greenish-white flowers appear, offering a soft, fragrant display that complements the rugged form of the tree.

• Pollinator Friendly
  The blooms attract pollinators during the rainy season, adding seasonal life and beauty to arid landscapes.

🌿 Traditional & Ecological Uses

• Cultural Heritage
  Used in indigenous rituals and traditional medicine, the Elephant Tree holds deep spiritual and cultural significance across its native range.

• Aromatic Resin
  Its fragrant resin is highly valued for incense, perfumes, and ceremonial use—offering soothing, grounding aromas that promote calm and clarity.

• Soil Stabilizer
  With an extensive root system, it helps prevent erosion and supports desert ecosystems by stabilizing dry soils.

• Wildlife Support
  The tree provides food, cover, and nesting sites for a variety of desert birds, insects, and small mammals.

🌞 Benefits at a Glance

• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives with minimal water once established—perfect for xeriscaping and sustainable gardening.

• Low Maintenance: Requires little care beyond occasional pruning.

• Striking Aesthetics: Its dramatic form and fragrant qualities make it a standout in native gardens, rock landscapes, and naturalistic designs.

Bring the Desert’s Spirit into Your Landscape
Whether you’re drawn by its rugged beauty, ecological value, or cultural legacy, Bursera fagaroides is a unique and resilient addition to any arid or water-wise landscape. Let the Elephant Tree become a living conversation piece in your outdoor space.

The succulent plant housed in the red pot comes in a 130mm diameter container. While the image provides a representative depiction of what you will receive, but may vary slightly because no two succulents are the same. The plant will be shipped bare rooted.

Please note - NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations. View Shipping options