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Haematoxylum campechianum, commonly known as Logwood, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree typically growing 15-40 feet (4-10 m) tall.
Growth Form
Upright trunk
Spreading, irregular crown
Often multi-branched
May have short, sharp spines on branches
Bark
Dark gray to brown
Rough and fissured with age
Inner heartwood deep reddish-purple
Leaves
Even pinnately compound, alternately arranged 2-4 pairs of small oval leaflets
Smooth margins
Light to medium green
Flowers
Bright yellow
Five petals
Fragrant
Produced in clusters
Bloom seasonally
The flowers are striking against dry forest backdrops.
Fruit
Flat, brown seed pods
Contain several hard seeds
Typical of legume family members
Habitat
Haematoxylum campechianum in Human Altered environments such as old fields, homesteads, roadsides often in areas that are ephemeral fresh water wetlands.
Distribution
It is native to Central America but now occurs throughout the Bahamian Archipelago, the Caribbean, and Florida as a Non-Native Invasive.
Ecological Importance
Flowers support pollinators
Provides habitat in dry forest ecosystem
Cultural Notes
Historically harvested for its heartwood Source of red and purple dye (hematoxylin) Important export during colonial periods
Wood extremely dense and durable
Haematoxylum campechianum is used medicinally in the Lucayan Archipelago to treat circulatory issues and in strengthening teas.
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