Description
The dense, heavy heartwood of the tropical evergreen guayacum trees, Guaiacum officinale and Guaiacum sanctum, that are native to the West Indies and the coast of Central America. Lignum vitae is the heaviest of all woods. The dark brown to black wood is tough and difficult to carve, but it is valued for its fine grain that polishes to a high gloss. The principal use of lignum vitae is for making of bowling balls, pulley sheaves, and mallet heads. It is naturally resistant to fungi.
Synonyms and Related Terms
wood of life; Guaiacum officinale; Guaiacum sanctum; gaïac (Fr.); gaiaco (Port.)
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Last updated on: 8/9/2009 10:57:44 AM
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