Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum officinale)

Family: Zygophyllaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Other common names include rough bark lignum-vitae, guaiacwood, pockholz, and tree of life. Native to the Caribbean and the northern coast of South America, Lignum Vitae or Guaiacum officinale is a small and slow-growing tree of about 3 -12 m tall and 60 cm in trunk diameter, with a dense crown and crooked bole. The leaves are compound, broadly oval and rounded at the tip. The flowers are blue in color with five petals.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring cakes and chewing gum. — The resin obtained from the tree is used for flavouring cakes and chewing gum.; It is also added to edible oils to prevent acidification.

Habitat & North American Range

Alluvial deposits near the coast. Dry and humid coastal woodland. (Zone 10)