Lignum vitae ‘Officinale’

Scientific Name: Guaiacum officinale

Common Names: Lignum Vitae, Tree of Life, Ironwood, Guayacan

Overview: The Guaiacum Sanctum is commonly called the Lignum Vitae, translating to “Wood of Life” or “Holy Wood.”It is the national tree of the Bahamas, and its flower is the national blossom of Jamaica. Its wood is extremely hard, and were used to make ship propellers. Its resins have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including arthritis and rheumatism.

Slow growing, this broadleaf evergreen is available as a tree or a shrub. Seen most often in the 9 to 12 ft. range, it forms a dense rounded canopy. The Lignum Vitae shows off star-shaped 5-petaled blue flowers in clusters that bloom throughout the year. The flowers are followed by small, heart-shaped orange berries. The Lignum Vitae requires full to partial sun, and is drought tolerant, once established.