Guaiacum angustifolium

Appearance

Texas lignum-vitae is a many branched shrub or small tree, reaching a height of 7 m. This evergreen has a dense canopy and short lateral branches.

Naming

Common names include Texas guaiacum, Texas lignum-vitae, soapbush and huayacán. The specific name is derived from the Latin "angustus", meaning "narrow," and "-folius", meaning "-leaved".

Status

Like other members of its genus, the international trade of Texas lignum-vitae is restricted by CITES Appendix II. Only seeds, pollen, and finished products ready for retail sale may be legally exported.

Habitat

"Guaiacum angustifolium" is a host plant for the caterpillars of the lyside sulphur. The leaves contain 16-18% crude protein and are browsed by White-tailed deer.

Uses

Like other species in its genus, the wood of "G. angustifolium" has extreme hardness and density and will sink in water. The sapwood is creamy yellow, while the heartwood is dark purple-brown. The wood is used for fence posts, tool handles, and firewood. Root extracts are used to treat rheumatism and sexually transmitted diseases. Soap can be made from the root bark, as it contains saponin; historically soap made in this way would be used to wash wool, since it does not fade the dyed-colors. The bark of the roots is also used as a disinfectant. The flowers are valued by beekeepers for their consistent nectar production. Texas lignum-vitae is cultivated as an ornamental because of its drought tolerance, dense foliage, compact size, gnarled branches, and fragrant flowers. It is used in hedges, rock gardens, and xeriscaping.