Paradise Tree
Simarouba glauca
Paradise Tree
Urban Forest Tree Walk
Scientific Name
Simarouba glauca
Location
The Paradise Tree (Simarouba glauca) is a graceful, native tropical tree that’s well-suited for South Florida’s warm, humid climate. Often overlooked in favor of more ornamental imports, this evergreen tree offers beauty, shade, and high wildlife value—making it a fantastic choice for sustainable landscapes. With its upright form, glossy green leaves, and subtle seasonal flowers, the Paradise Tree brings quiet elegance and ecological benefit to the garden.
Typically growing 30 to 50 feet tall, the Paradise Tree has a tall, straight trunk and a symmetrical canopy with compound, shiny leaflets that stay green year-round in warm zones. In spring or summer, small greenish-white flowers appear, followed by clusters of reddish or purplish fruits that are loved by birds and other wildlife. Despite its name, this tree isn’t flashy—but its clean lines, pest resistance, and easy care make it a landscaper’s favorite for native gardens, urban plantings, and reforestation projects.
Tough and adaptable, the Paradise Tree grows best in full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of drought, salt, and wind once established. As a native species, it plays a key role in supporting local ecosystems while requiring little in return.
Fast Facts
For the Birds
Its small, fleshy fruits may go unnoticed by people, but they’re a favorite food for birds and small mammals. Planting a Paradise Tree means adding a natural snack bar to your backyard for wildlife.
Hometown
The Paradise Tree is native to South Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America. It naturally grows in coastal hammocks and upland forests, where it plays a quiet but important role in native ecosystems.
Low-Key, High Impact
It may not scream for attention, but the Paradise Tree offers serious landscape value: shade, structure, resilience, and habitat—all with minimal maintenance. It’s a quiet workhorse with an elegant silhouette.