Accession #: 200500052
Accession Date: 2005-06-16
Common name: Lignum Vitae
Family: Zygophyllaceae
Synonym(s):
Country of Origin: Florida, Mexico to northern South America, West Indies
Description: Large shrub or tree, up to 30 feet tall (10 m); pinnate leaves, up to 4 inches long (10 cm) with 4 to 10 deep green, oblong to obovate, leathery leaflets, up to 1.5 inches long (4 cm)
Uses: Laxative, poison antidote, appetite, gonorrhea, boils, fever, syphilis, sudorific, gout, rheumatism, dentifrice, coughs, tuberculosis<P> also produces an extremely hard wood <p>Population estimates suggest less than 2500 mature specimens in the wild, and those remaining individuals still face a rapid decline. Decline is principally due to deforestation and exploitation for human uses.<sup>3</sup>
IMPORTANT NOTE: Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.
USDA Zone: 9b-12
Source: Judy Colley-Cant, Niagara Butterfly Cons
Provenance:
Restrictions:
Culture:
