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Trees of Zihuatanejo

Gumbo Limbo (Papeliilo)

Bursera simaruba

The Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba) is a tropical deciduous tree native to southern Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. It is easily recognized by its striking, smooth, coppery-red bark that peels away in thin, papery layers, giving it the nickname “tourist tree” for its resemblance to sunburned skin. The tree grows quickly and can reach 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet) in height. Its wood is lightweight and historically used for carving, drums, and fishing net floats, while its resin has traditional medicinal uses.

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