Guaiacum officinale

Native to Aruba, Bahamas, Cayman Is., Colombia, Cuba, and Dominican Republic and nearby regions, this is a tree in the Zygophyllaceae family. It is a slow-growing tree that tolerates wind and salt. Beyond its ornamental allure of rich blue flowers, it holds a trove of commercial and medicinal values. The extremely dense and hard wood of Guaiacum officinale has found utility. Furthermore, its hard wood and resin are key in preparing medicinal extracts, offering a range of health benefits including anti-rheumatic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, and mild laxative activities​5​​6​. Additionally, the wood serves as a flavoring agent in foods, edible oils, and fats. Photographed in Barranquilla, Colombia.