The Story
Plant Bio
Simarouba glauca, commonly known as the paradise-tree, is an evergreen tree native to southern Florida, Central America, and the Caribbean. It develops a straight cylindrical trunk with an upright, narrow to spreading canopy of alternate pinnate leaves that emerge bronze-red before maturing to a glaucous blue-green.
This species is dioecious, producing small, yellowish-white flowers in large terminal panicles during spring and summer that attract bees and butterflies. Female trees produce fleshy purple drupes that serve as an important food source for local bird species.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
590"
Width
358"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
10
Water
Low to Medium
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
North America (Florida), Central America, Caribbean
Toxicity
Stomach upset if ingested raw in quantity
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 6 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil, avoiding areas prone to standing water.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth to ensure the root flare sits flush with the soil surface.
- Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil, then maintain regular moisture until the root system is established.
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Avoid heavy or indiscriminate pruning into old, leafless wood, as this species recovers slowly and produces patchy regrowth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure excellent soil drainage to prevent root rot.
- Prune young trees early to establish a strong central leader and structural framework.
- Protect young specimens from freezing temperatures, as the species is highly frost-sensitive.
Don't
- Do not plant in low-lying, waterlogged, or heavily compacted soils.
- Do not cut back heavily into old, bare wood during routine maintenance.
- Do not over-fertilize, as this species is adapted to nutrient-poor sandy and limestone soils.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Paradise-tree questions
What zones can Paradise-tree grow in?
Paradise-tree is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Paradise-tree bloom?
Paradise-tree typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Paradise-tree need full sun?
Paradise-tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Paradise-tree drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Paradise-tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Paradise-tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.