The Jamaican National Flower
Lignum vitae (Guiacum officinale)
This flower is indigenous to Jamaica and was found here by Christopher Columbus. It is thought that the name "Wood of Life" was then adopted because of its medicinal qualities.
The tree grows best in the dry woodlands along both the North and South Coasts of the island. In addition to shedding an attractive blue flower, the plant itself is extremely ornamental. The wood is used for propeller shaft bearings in nearly all the ships sailing the Seven Seas, and because of this, in shipyards, etc. the Lignum Vitae and Jamaica are closely associated. The wood is also used in the manufacture of curios, sought after by visitors and nationals alike.
There is also a thriving export trade.