About
Guaiacum officinale, lignum vitae, is a slow-growing, evergreen tree from the Caribbean producing pinnate leaves, small, blue-violet flowers and the hardest, densest, heaviest commercial wood in the world. An ornamental tree for a frost-free, sunny garden or large heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Guaiacum are slow-growing, evergreen trees and shrubs from tropical America producing pinnate leaves, blue-violet flowers and exceptionally hard, dense, resinous wood. Grown as ornamental specimen trees in frost-free gardens.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead or damaged growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.