Bursera microphylla Elephant Tree | 140mm

Bursera microphylla, commonly called the Elephant Tree, is a sculptural plant grown for its thickening trunk, branching shape and small leaflets. This 140mm nursery-size specimen is a distinctive choice for collectors interested in caudex plants and bonsai-style displays.

The trunk develops character as the plant matures, so a young specimen will differ from an established tree. Give it a feature container and room to show off its branching structure.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Bursera microphylla
• Common name: Elephant Tree
• Plant type: Drought-adapted, succulent-stemmed tree or shrub
• Nursery pot size: 140mm diameter; see delivery details below
• Features: Sculptural trunk, fine branching and small leaflets
• Best suited to: Collector pots and bonsai-style growing

Elephant Tree care in Australia

• Light: Provide a bright, sunny position, introducing stronger sun gradually.
• Warmth: Choose a warm, protected spot. Shelter from frost and cold, wet weather; a movable pot is useful in cooler Australian climates.
• Water: During active growth, water thoroughly and allow the mix to dry before watering again. Reduce watering when growth slows or the plant is leafless.
• Drainage: Use a very free-draining mix and a container with drainage holes. Avoid leaving water in a saucer.
• Seasonal changes: Leaf loss can occur during dormancy or dry conditions. Check the season, temperature and root-zone moisture before adding more water.

What you will receive

One Bursera microphylla grown in a 140mm nursery pot. Plants are shipped bare root unless a potted option has been specifically arranged. Photographs are representative: trunk thickness, branching, foliage and overall size vary between plants and seasons.

Delivery information

Shipping to Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory is currently paused. Visit our shipping and returns page for current delivery areas, dispatch details and potted-shipping enquiries.

Browse our plant collection for more unusual specimens to grow alongside your Elephant Tree.