Bursera longipes
Care, watering, light and tips for Bursera longipes on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Burseraceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 15 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Bursera longipes
Bursera longipes, commonly known as Palo mulato, is a medium to large tree native to Mexico, distinguished by its smooth, glossy bark that peels off in thin flakes, revealing reddish and coppery tones. Its attractive trunk and deciduous foliage make it an ideal ornamental specimen for xeriscape gardens, desert landscaping, or as a shade tree in warm climates. Its elegant silhouette and unique texture make it an interesting focal point in any garden design. It can reach heights of up to 15 meters, although it tends to be more compact in cultivation.
Native range
Mexico
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun and requires infrequent to moderate watering, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably sandy or rocky, mimicking its natural desert habitat. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, especially in winter, which can be fatal to the plant. It is drought-tolerant once established.
How to save a dying Bursera longipes
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or massive leaf drop, soft or wrinkled trunk, lack of new shoots.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. If waterlogged, remove plant and dry roots.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter or poorly drained soil. Also, lack of direct light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the trunk is not completely rotted. Act quickly with drainage and sunlight.