Tropical Zone Gardening: How do I prune a fustic tree to ensure it grows properly?, 1 by Sharmian

Sharmian wrote:
I have a fustic tree in my garden in Barbados. I have had it two years and it is now about four feet high, although I understand they can grow to around 30 feet or more. However, the tree is very straggly and I wonder if I need to remove some of the lower branches and perhaps "prune" some of the upper growth to make it grow better and be more shapely. Can anyone advise me about this please? The photograph was taken from the balcony looking down on the tree but I hope it shows what a rambling mess it is!