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Bursera stenophylla

Burseraceae
$ 35.00 / plant
Plant selection
Quantity Qty
1
Sales Type Retail, Same Batch
Product Size W1cm
Packaged Weight Actual packaged weight varies by product and root system. 0.1 kg
Propagation Method Seed-grown

Cataloged as

Description

Geographic & Climate

  • Geographic Coordinates: Southern Baja California Sur, Mexico (approx. 23°N–25°N, 110°W–111°W)

  • Climate Classification: BWh (Hot Desert Climate)

  • Habitat Characteristics: Altitude ranges from sea level to 400 meters in arid desert scrub, rocky granitic slopes, and dry arroyo margins, characterized by extreme summer heat, high solar radiation, and rapid-draining, coarse gravelly-sandy mineral soils.

Botanical Morphology

  • Diagnostic Features: A distinct pachycaul deciduous shrub to small tree featuring a smooth, papery peeling bark that exposes a greenish-golden to coppery photosynthetic trunk layer. Leaves are narrowly linear to lanceolate (hence stenophylla, meaning narrow-leaved), entire-margined, and clustered at the tips of thickened, succulent-like branches.

  • Growth Habit: Moderate-growing warm-season deciduous caudiciform perennial. Enters a complete dry-season dormancy by shedding its narrow leaves during extended drought. Mature specimens typically reach an ultimate height of 1 to 3 meters in cultivation.

History & Etymology

  • Etymology: The specific epithet stenophylla is derived from the Greek words stenos (meaning "narrow") and phyllon (meaning "leaf"), directly referencing the characteristically slender, linear foliage.

  • Historical Context: Originally collected and documented in the arid thorn forests and rocky scrublands of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico, gaining recognition among specialized caudex and succulent tree collectors for its striking peeling bark and exceptionally narrow leaves.

Care Guide

Essential Care Tips for Thriving Plants

Light

Provide partial to full sun. Most plants thrive on direct UV exposure. Avoid placing behind window glass, as it filters out the essential UV rays needed for healthy growth.

Water

Follow the "Soak and Dry" principle. Ensure the top 2–3 cm of soil is bone dry before watering (use the finger test). Reduce frequency in winter, but do not stop watering entirely.

Temperature

The ideal range is 18–35 °C. Maintain temperatures above 5 °C during winter. Please note that temperatures below 0 °C pose a significant risk of plant death.

Humidity

Best kept at 30–50% humidity. Note: High air humidity is not a substitute for root watering. Avoid overly damp areas to prevent root rot or leggy side shoots.

Soil

A loose, well-draining medium is ideal. A mix containing 50–70% grit or mineral soil is recommended for aeration. Outdoor ground planting is also a viable option.

Fertilizer

Fertilize during repotting using Osmocote A2 slow-release fertilizer. Apply sparingly twice a year, or adjust the fertilizer type based on your specific home environment.

Planting Guide

Start Your Green Journey in 4 Steps

Unbox & Inspect

Carefully unpack and inspect the plant’s body and roots. We recommend taking photos or videos immediately for your records. Place it in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for 1–2 days to acclimate to its new environment.

Potting & Placement

After 24 hours of rest, pot the plant using slightly moistened soil. Place it in a bright, airy location to encourage recovery. Keep away from AC vents or heaters to prevent damage from temperature fluctuations.

First Watering

Use water that has sat for at least 24 hours. If using the damp-potting method, wait 2–3 days before the first watering. Ensure a thorough soak until water drains freely from the bottom.

Daily Care

Monitor leaf condition and soil moisture daily. If the soil remains damp, increase ventilation rather than watering. Proper airflow is essential to prevent root rot and ensure lasting health.