Species lignum vitae
round, smooth, green leaves with yellow fleshy fruits and stems

lignum vitae

Guaiacum sanctum

Lignum Vitae, also known as Guaiacum sanctum, is an amazing plant species native to the Caribbean islands and Central America. Its name, meaning "wood of life," comes from its long history of medicinal uses. It is considered one of the world's hardest and heaviest woods, and has incredible heat and corrosion-resistant properties. Its medical applications range from treating fever and gastrointestinal problems to healing wounds. Lignum Vitae is also hailed for its ornamental qualities, as it produces small, intensely blue flowers. On top of these benefits, it is also ecologically friendly, as its dense wood serves as a natural carbon sink. With its many amazing qualities, Lignum Vitae is truly a gift from nature!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

Blue Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

High

watering

Lignum vitae (Guaiacum sanctum) should be watered about twice a week, providing enough water to moisten the top 6 - 8 inches of soil. During the hot season, trees may need additional water every week, while temperate climates allow trees to usually stay moist enough during the cooler months.

sunlight

Lignum vitae benefits from full sun for at least 6 hours each day when grown in optimal conditions. In its native environment, Lignum vitae is typically found in a tropical and subtropical climate, as it thrives in high temperatures and requires plenty of sunlight for growth and flowering. In areas outside of its native environment, lignum vitae can still survive and even thrive in partial shade; however, it will flower more profusely with optimal sun exposure.

pruning

Lignum vitae should be pruned annually to shape the plant and maintain a desired size. Pruning should begin in the early spring, before new growth appears or after flowering. Start by selectively removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and then shape the plant to maintain form. Remove up to a third of the branches. Pruning is not required for foliage maintenance, as this species does not require regular pruning for healthy growth and up keep.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Lignum vitae typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Lignum vitae typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map