Overview
Guaiacum officinale is a plant with a shrub, small tree habit in the genus Guaiacum, part of the Zygophyllaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Guaiacum officinale grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include specimen plant, conservatories and botanical collections.
About
Guaiacum officinale, commonly known as lignum vitae, is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family. It thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with well-drained, neutral loam soil that remains dry. This cultivar is hardy to UK zone H5 and is best suited as a specimen plant, in conservatories, or botanical collections. It is of particular interest during spring and summer. Cultivation requires watering during establishment, and propagation can be achieved by seed or semi-ripe cuttings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Guaiacum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Dry
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Guaiacum officinale size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, small tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen plant, conservatories, botanical collections
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Guaiacum officinale
- Propagation
- Seed, semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, whiteflies
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to root rot if overwatered
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Guaiacum officinale?
Guaiacum officinale prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Guaiacum officinale need?
Guaiacum officinale grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays dry.
Is Guaiacum officinale hardy in the UK?
Guaiacum officinale has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Guaiacum officinale?
Seed, semi-ripe cuttings.