Lignum Vitae
guaiacum sanctum
Also known as: ["Holywood","Ironwood"]
Overview
A slow-growing, evergreen tree native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its extremely hard and dense wood.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Zygophyllales |
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Guaiacum |
| Botanical Name: | Guaiacum sanctum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove no more than 20–30% of the plant at one time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy or flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks to prevent leaf burn. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Indoors, place in the brightest possible location, such as a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; avoid frequent shallow watering; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but thrives in mild to warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced, slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, sand, and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks. Seed germination can take 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
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 maintain form. Remove crossing or crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood. Light pruning can be done annually to shape the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 6-inch to 8-inch pot).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Guaiacum sanctum prefers to be slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry out partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage. Incorporate compost or leaf mold for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and reduce vigor.
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location during freezes. Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots. Avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering. Drought stress may occur if water demand exceeds supply.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture. Increase humidity around the plant if grown indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicGuaiacum sanctum is toxic to cats, with the seeds and roots being the most dangerous parts. The plant's compounds can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and roots of Guaiacum sanctum are toxic to dogs, potentially causing severe gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions. The plant contains compounds that can be particularly harmful to canine digestive systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGuaiacum sanctum 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 Guaiacum sanctum suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its slow growth and eventual large size, it is best suited for spacious outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does Lignum Vitae require frequent watering?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can the wood of Guaiacum sanctum be used for woodworking?
A: Yes, its extremely hard and dense wood is prized for its durability and resistance to wear.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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