THE lignum-vitae. It is from this tree that Jamaica derives its national flower and perhaps there is little wonder why.

Known scientifically as Guaiacum officinale, the lignum-vitae is a slow growing evergreen tree found in continental tropical America and the West Indies. The tree is known as the “wood of life”, which is derived from its Latin name guayacan, as well as its medicinal uses.

The wood of the lignum-vitae is hard and dense and contains natural lubricating oils which do not dry out. The wood is used for products that require strength, weight and hardness. These include clocks, cricket bails, mortars, pestles, bowling balls, bearings, furniture, gears, mallets, cutting boards, bowls, carvings, lumber, charcoal production, craft, ship building, kitchen utensils, propeller shafts for steamships and to scrub floors. The wood has also been used to treat syphilis while the wood chips are brewed for tea.

The resin, a sticky substance produced by the tree, has been used for coughs, arthritis, gout, sciatica and as an anti-inflammatory agent. The crown and leaves of the tree provide shade. The tree also serves as a wildlife habitat, especially for the lignum-vitae butterfly (Krigonia lyside), which is often seen in abundance around the tree.

How to recognise lignum-vitae habitat

Lignum-vitae trees are commonly found in dry areas of the north and south coast of Jamaica and on alluvial plains. They may also be planted as ornamentals (landscape plants) in other areas.

Conservation

Lignum-vitae is listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) as an Appendix II species (2007), which serves as an effort to protect and conserve the species. The tree is also listed under the Endangered Species (Protection, Conservation and Regulation of Trade) Act, 2000. This means that a permit is required for the import and export of all specimens and derivatives of the plant. The tree is threatened by harvesting activities, hurricane, fire/forest fire, flooding, landslides, land clearing for development, forest clearance for wood and coal burning.

Distribution

Lignum-vitae trees are naturally found in Portland, St Elizabeth, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, St Ann, Clarendon, St Thomas, Manchester and Westmoreland.

— National Environment and Planning Agency