Light. Full sun to light shade.
Water. Water while it establishes. It prefers moist soil but tolerates short dry periods once established.
Soil and feeding. Grows in sandy or limestone soils, including alkaline ones. It tolerates poor soil but needs some organic matter in the top layer; its nutrient needs are moderate.
Size. Usually 10–20 ft tall, with a narrow, upright crown. It grows slowly to moderately.
Good to know. A Florida native of hammocks; its narrow shape suits spots near buildings. It takes some salty wind but not direct salt spray. Birds and mammals use it for cover. Gray lichens often grow on the leaves. New leaves are reddish.
Sources: Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Gymnanthes lucida · Florida Native Plant Society Plant Database: Gymnanthes lucida
