Elemi Frankincense: The Aromatic Treasure Tree for Warm Climate Gardens
If you’ve ever wondered about growing your own frankincense tree, meet elemi frankincense (Boswellia frereana) – a fascinating aromatic tree that brings both botanical intrigue and heavenly fragrance to the right garden setting. While it’s not the easiest plant to grow, this special tree offers rewards that make it worth considering for adventurous gardeners in the warmest climates.
What is Elemi Frankincense?
Elemi frankincense is a small, slow-growing tree native to the arid regions of northern Somalia. Like its famous cousin that produces biblical frankincense, this species produces aromatic resin that has been valued for centuries. The tree typically grows as a compact specimen with compound leaves and produces small clusters of white to pale yellow flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Native Range and Geographic Distribution
This remarkable tree calls the harsh, rocky landscapes of northern Somalia home, particularly thriving in the Somaliland region. Here, it has adapted to extreme drought conditions and poor, rocky soils that would challenge most other plants.
Why Consider (or Skip) This Plant
Reasons to grow elemi frankincense:
- Unique aromatic qualities – the resin produces a distinctive, pleasant fragrance
- Drought tolerance once established makes it perfect for water-wise gardening
- Fascinating conversation starter and collector’s specimen
- Attracts pollinators with its delicate flower clusters
- Compact size suitable for smaller spaces
Reasons you might want to pass:
- Extremely limited growing zones (only USDA 10-11)
- Very slow growth rate requires patience
- Specific soil and drainage requirements
- Frost sensitivity means it’s not suitable for most North American gardens
- Can be challenging to source from reputable nurseries
Growing Conditions and Care
If you live in USDA zones 10-11 and want to try your hand at growing this unique tree, here’s what you need to know:
Soil Requirements: Elemi frankincense absolutely demands excellent drainage. Think rocky, sandy, or gravelly soil that mimics its native habitat. Heavy clay or moisture-retentive soils are a recipe for disaster.
Water Needs: Once established, this tree is remarkably drought tolerant. In fact, overwatering is more likely to kill it than underwatering. Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Light Requirements: Full sun is essential. This tree evolved in harsh, sunny conditions and won’t tolerate shade.
Temperature: Frost will damage or kill elemi frankincense. If temperatures in your area occasionally dip below freezing, consider container growing so you can move it to protection.
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in spring after all danger of frost has passed
- Amend heavy soils with plenty of sand, gravel, or pumice to improve drainage
- Consider raised beds or mounded planting areas for better drainage
- Water deeply but infrequently once established
- Avoid fertilizing – this tree prefers lean, nutrient-poor conditions
- Prune minimally and only to remove dead or damaged branches
- Be patient – growth is naturally very slow
Landscape Design Role
Elemi frankincense works beautifully in:
- Xeriscape and drought-tolerant gardens
- Mediterranean-style landscapes
- Rock gardens and succulent collections
- Aromatic or sensory gardens
- Container gardens (with excellent drainage)
- Specialty collector gardens
Consider Native Alternatives
Since elemi frankincense isn’t native to North America and has such specific growing requirements, consider these native alternatives that offer similar benefits:
- Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) for drought tolerance and fragrant flowers
- Texas sage (Leucophyllum species) for aromatic foliage and drought tolerance
- Native sumacs (Rhus species) for interesting foliage and wildlife value
The Bottom Line
Elemi frankincense is definitely a specialty plant for dedicated gardeners in the warmest climates. If you have the right conditions and patience for slow growth, it can be a fascinating addition that offers unique aromatic qualities and historical significance. However, most gardeners will find better success with native drought-tolerant alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems. Whatever you choose, remember that successful gardening often means working with your climate rather than against it!
