SafePlants

Lignum Vitae: The "Tree of Life"

Lignum vitae, often referred to as guayacan or guaiacum, is a highly prized trade wood sourced from trees of the genus Guaiacum. In some parts of Europe, it is known as pockholz. The name, translating from Latin as "wood of life" or "tree of life," reflects its historical medicinal uses.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the wood being very hard and dense, which could pose a chewing hazard for some pets.
• The wood contains resinous substances, and historically has been used medicinally. It's not safe to assume that these substances are non-toxic to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions the wood being very hard and dense, which could pose a choking hazard.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Guaiacum
• Family: Zygophyllaceae

Common names include: Lignum vitae, Guayacan, Palo santo, and ironwood.

Synonyms or related species:

• Bulnesia sarmienti (referred to as "Argentine Lignum Vitae" by some suppliers)

Distribution and Habitat

Lignum vitae is native to the West Indies and tropical regions of the Americas. Specific locations mentioned include:

• The Bahamas (national tree)
• Jamaica (national flower)
• ABC Islands of the Dutch Caribbean
• Florida Keys (Lignumvitae Key, Lignumvitae Key Aquatic Preserve, Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park)

It is also characteristic of xerophilous regions.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The trees of the genus Guaiacum are typically small, slow-growing, and evergreen, generally reaching 7-10 meters (approximately 23-33 feet) in height, although they can occasionally grow up to 50 feet.
• Guaiacum sanctum (holywood lignum-vitae) produces beautiful blue flowers, either solitarily or in clusters.
• The wood is known for being the world's densest and heaviest, so much so that it sinks easily in water.

Ecological Role and Threats

• Overexploitation for timber and medicinal resin has been a major threat to Lignum Vitae throughout history.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, Lignum Vitae has been used medicinally as a remedy for conditions ranging from arthritis to coughs to syphilis.
• The wood also has many uses in construction.

Quirky Facts

• Lignum-vitae bearings have been used for over 100 years, performing without the need for oil or grease, relying on water for self-lubrication.
• Legend has it that the Great Merlin of Camelot wielded a wand made from Lignum Vitae.