Frankincense Tree: The Ancient Aromatic That’s Not for Every Garden
If you’ve ever wondered about growing your own frankincense, you’re thinking of Boswellia sacra – the legendary tree that produces one of the world’s most precious resins. While the idea of harvesting your own frankincense might sound incredibly appealing, this ancient Arabian tree comes with some pretty serious growing challenges that make it unsuitable for most North American gardens.
What is Frankincense?
Frankincense, scientifically known as Boswellia sacra, is a small to medium-sized tree famous for producing aromatic resin that’s been treasured for thousands of years. You might also see it listed under its synonym Boswellia carteri. This isn’t your typical backyard tree – it’s evolved to thrive in some of the harshest conditions on Earth.
Where Does Frankincense Come From?
The frankincense tree is native to the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman and Yemen, as well as parts of Somalia in northeastern Africa. These regions are characterized by extreme aridity, rocky limestone terrain, and scorching temperatures – conditions that are nearly impossible to replicate in most North American gardens.
What Does a Frankincense Tree Look Like?
Boswellia sacra is actually quite an attractive tree when you see it in its natural habitat. Here’s what to expect:
- Small to medium-sized tree, typically 6-20 feet tall
- Compound leaves that are bright green when water is available
- Small, white to pale yellow flowers arranged in clusters
- Thick, papery bark that peels in sheets
- Often grows directly out of rock crevices in cliff faces
Growing Conditions: Why It’s So Challenging
Here’s where things get tricky. Frankincense trees have evolved for conditions that are almost the opposite of what most gardens provide:
- Climate: USDA zones 10-12 only, with no frost tolerance whatsoever
- Water: Extremely minimal – these trees actually prefer long dry periods
- Soil: Rocky, limestone-based soil with perfect drainage
- Humidity: Very low humidity levels
- Sun: Full, intense sun exposure
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
In its native range, the frankincense tree does provide some benefits to local wildlife. The small flowers attract bees and other pollinators, and the tree provides some shelter in otherwise barren landscapes. However, these benefits don’t translate well to North American ecosystems where the tree would be completely out of place.
Why Most Gardeners Should Skip This One
Unless you live in the most arid parts of Southern California, Arizona, or similar desert climates, and have experience with extremely challenging plants, the frankincense tree probably isn’t for you. Here’s why:
- Nearly impossible to establish outside of desert climates
- Extremely sensitive to overwatering (most plants die from too much moisture)
- Requires specialized soil conditions
- Takes many years to mature enough to produce resin
- No tolerance for cold or humidity
Better Alternatives for Aromatic Trees
If you’re drawn to the idea of aromatic trees, consider these native or better-adapted alternatives:
- For Eastern regions: Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) or Sweet Birch (Betula lenta)
- For Western regions: California Bay Laurel (Umbellularia californica) or Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)
- For Mediterranean climates: California native sages like White Sage (Salvia apiana)
If You’re Determined to Try
For the truly adventurous gardener in the right climate zone, here are some tips:
- Start with a very young plant from a reputable specialty nursery
- Plant in a raised bed or container with extremely well-draining, rocky soil
- Water very sparingly – less is definitely more
- Provide protection from any moisture or humidity
- Be prepared for a very long wait before seeing any resin production
- Consider it more of a botanical curiosity than a practical garden addition
The Bottom Line
While the frankincense tree is undeniably fascinating and historically significant, it’s simply not suited for most North American gardens. Unless you’re in an extremely arid climate and love a serious gardening challenge, you’ll probably have much better success (and provide more ecological benefit) by choosing native alternatives that offer their own unique fragrances and beauty. Save the frankincense for purchasing from sustainable sources, and let the experts handle the growing!
