Photo by: Shirley Denton, Suncoast Chapter FNPS
Photo by: Shirley Denton, Suncoast Chapter FNPS
Photo by: Shirley Denton, Suncoast Chapter FNPS
Photo by: Shirley Denton, Suncoast Chapter FNPS
Photo by: John Bradford, Martin County Chapter FNPS
Photo by: Dick Diener
Photo by: Shirley Denton, Suncoast Chapter FNPS
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Nomenclature
Common Name:
lignum-vitae
Synonym(s):
Genus species:
Guaiacum sanctum
Family:
Zygophyllaceae
Plant Specifics
Form:
tree
Size:
8-15 (25) ft
Life Span:
Long-lived perennial
Flower Color:
purple
Fruit Color:
orange
Phenology:
Evergreen. Blooms mostly in spring.
Noted For:
Showy Flowers, Showy Fruits, Hurricane Wind Resistance, Interesting Foliage
Landscaping
Recommended Uses:
Specimen plant.
Considerations:
Very slow growing--as little as an inch per year after the seedling stage if not fertilized.
Availability:
Native Nurseries, FNPS Plant Sales, Seed
Propagation:
Light:
Full Sun, Part Sun
Moisture Tolerance:
Always Flooded------------------------------------------------Extremely Dry
Coming Soon!
Somewhat moist, no flooding ---to--- Somewhat long very dry periods
Salt Water Flooding Tolerance:
Unknown
Salt Spray/Salty Soil Tolerance:
Moderate. Tolerant of salty wind and may get some salt spray.
Soil or Other Substrate:
Sand, Lime Rock
Soil pH:
Suitable to Grow In:
9B,10A,10B,11
Ecology
Native Habitats:
Rockland hammock.
Natural Range in Florida:
Visit the USF Libraries Atlas of Florida Plants
Comments:
Ethnobotany:
Extensive history of human uses, especially for the wood, which is so dense that it sinks in water. Its wood was highly prized for propellers and judges' gavels. Because it's resinous, the wood was also good for ball bearings and hinges--they are self lubricating.
General Comments:
While most of these slow-growing trees were harvested for their wood, one Florida key retained its population because it was privately owned. It's now the Lignum-Vitae State Park, which is accessible only via boat.
