Lignum Vitae
guaiacum officinale
Also known as: ["Tree of Life","Ironwood"]
Overview
A slow-growing, evergreen tree native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America, known for its extremely hard wood and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Zygophyllales |
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Guaiacum |
| Botanical Name: | Guaiacum officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or xeriscapes in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some protection from intense midday sun in summer; adjust based on seasonal intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer heat; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize during active growth; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (75–85°F / 24–29°C); bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional months for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid heavy cuts that may shock the plant.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use appropriate fertilizer; follow dilution instructions; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicGuaiacum officinale is toxic to cats, with the seeds and roots being particularly harmful. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions, posing a risk to feline health.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and roots of Guaiacum officinale are toxic to dogs, potentially causing severe gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions. The toxic compounds can lead to significant discomfort and health issues if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGuaiacum officinale contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The seeds and roots are the most toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lignum Vitae toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How fast does Lignum Vitae grow?
A: It is a very slow-growing tree, often taking many years to reach maturity.
Q: What are the uses of Lignum Vitae?
A: Its extremely hard wood has been historically used for shipbuilding, bearings, and medicinal purposes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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