Friday, March 7, 2014

Day 57


Lignum Vitae

Guayacan or Pockholz

Latin for "tree of life" the lignum vitae tree is native to the Caribbean and the northern coast of South America.  Since the beginning of the 16th century it has been an important export to Europe.  It is the national flower of Jamaica as well as the national tree of the Bahamas.  Lignum vitae is a small slow growing tree that is known for it's extraordinary strength and density.  It's wood chips can be used to brew tea and it's sap has medicinal qualities that have been used to treat a range of ailments from coughs to arthritis.  Lignum vitae is considered a "potentially" endangered species.  Time to plant one in our yard.




No comments: