An evergreen tree, indigenous to the West Indies. Has opposite oval compound bright green leaves and small blue flowers in summer which later develop into bright orange fruits. Trained in the traditional art shaped bonsai style. Lignum Vitae means "long life" in latin from which comes one of its common names, Tree of Life. Lignum vitae is the heaviest and densest wood in the world and will rapidly sink to the bottom when placed in water. The resin has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions from coughs to arthritis. Wood chips can also be used to brew a tea. Protect from low temps. Great for indoors.