Light. Full sun. It also grows in partial shade.
Water. Water regularly while it establishes, then little or none. Once rooted in, it needs no supplemental water.
Soil and feeding. Grows on almost any well-drained sandy or limestone soil. It grows faster on rich soil with some organic matter.
Size. Grows to about 30 ft in landscapes; old trees in the wild reach 40–50 ft or more, with a 25–30 ft spread.
Pruning. Train young trees for a strong structure, since branches can break. Stake new plantings, as roots lag behind top growth.
Problems to watch. No serious pests. Fruits and seeds stain hard surfaces, and shallow roots can lift sidewalks and driveways, so plant away from paving.
Good to know. A Florida native with high tolerance of salty wind. New leaves come out red. Protect it from frost.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS ENH-737/ST590: Simarouba glauca, Paradise-Tree · Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Simarouba glauca
