Characteristics: This exotic and imported hardwood is one of the hardest woods in the world. The heartwood is dark greenish-brown to almost black at times. The figure is very pleasing. The grain is heavily interlocked and irregular, the texture is fine and uniformed. The wood is especially oily or waxy due to a natural gum resin, which is about 30% of it’s weight. The strength properties of this hardwood is very high. In a resistance to indentation test, Lignum Vitae ranked first out of 405 woods tested!

Common Uses: Due to it’s self lubricating properties, Lignum Vitae is unsurpassed in it’s use for ship’s propeller shaft bearings and bushings. The wood will last about three times longer than steel or bronze. (in this application, it’s ability to withstand working pressures of 2,000 psi is also essential.) Also referred to as "Ironwood", Lignum Vitae is used for marine equipment - thrust bearings - wheels - die cutting - turning and industrial rollers. At one time it was used for bowling balls. The resin from Lignum Vitae is sometimes used for medical uses such as treating gout and rheumatism.

Working Properties: As you can imagine, Lignum Vitae is extremely hard to work with hand tools and very hard to saw and machine. Preboring for screws is essential and they will hold well. It is an excellent turnery wood but sandpaper will clog quickly due to the resin in the wood. The oily nature makes gluing difficult and surface treatment is required. Lignum Vitae produces an excellent finish.

Common Name: Lignum Vitae

Tree is Native To: West Indies, Central America

Botanical Classification: Guaiacum officinale

Family: Zygophyllaceae

Average Dried Weight: 82 lb/ft.

Average Specific Gravity: 1.23