Lignum Vitae is a small native tree that produces dark blue to purple flowers several times a year. It is slow growing and very drought tolerant. Lignum Vitae provides food and shelter for birds and is a nectar source for butterflies and bees. It is also the larval host plant for Lyside Sulphur butterflies.
How to care for Lignum Vitae
Light. Full sun. Young seedlings tolerate light shade.
Water. Water while it establishes. After that it is highly drought tolerant and needs no supplemental water, though it also handles occasionally wet soil.
Soil and feeding. Grows in any well-drained soil, including alkaline limestone. It thrives with some organic matter on top but grows in poor soil.
Size. Grows very slowly to about 15 ft, often as wide as tall.
Pruning. Prune young trees to develop strong structure. The branches resist breakage.
Problems to watch. Free of serious pests and diseases.
Good to know. A Florida native of hammocks in the Keys and Miami-Dade County, listed as endangered in Florida. It tolerates salty coastal wind. Blue flowers peak in spring but can appear all year, followed by yellow-orange fruit. Suited to zones 10B–11.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS ENH445/ST286: Guaiacum sanctum: Lignum Vitae · Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Guaiacum sanctum
