Special Guaiacum Officinale - Lignum Vitae - Rare Tropical Plant Tree Seeds (10) You are purchasing 10 of these rare seeds: Guaiacum Officinale - Lignum Vitae Native to the Caribbean and northern coasts of South America, it is commonly known as the lignum-vitae. As a result of over-exploitation for its valuable heartwood and medicinal uses, it was listed as an endangered species in 1998. This very attractive evergreen tree can be grown in full sun or partial shade and tolerates most soils. It is also tolerant of wind and salt. It is distinctive for its beautiful display of bright blue/periwinkle flowers.