Guaiacum sanctum
Lignum Vitae
Slow-growing but sturdy Florida native shrub or small tree to 20′. Foliage even-pinnate, . Flowers bluish to purple (rarely white!), 5-petaled, solitairy, blooming almost year-round, attractive to pollinators. Fruit a 3/4″ long yellow, slightly ribbed pod; seeds black, covered in a fleshy red coating, often found hanging from fruit when open.
Wood sturdy and heavy (sinks in water), once valued for ship’s bearings.
Slow growth, small size, and ability to thrive on neglect make it a good choice for small spaces such as parking lots.