Lignum vitae is the heartwoo of species of the genus Guaiacum, the trees of which are also called guayacan. The name is Latin for "wood of life", and derives from its medicinal uses. Other names are palo santo, holy wood, greenheart and ironwood (one of many). The wood is obtained chiefly from Guaiacum officinale and Guaiacum sanctum, both small, slow growing trees.