NAME: Haematoxylum campechianum

FAMILY: Fabaceae (Legume family)

COMMON NAMES: Logwood, Campeachy Wood

LOCAL NAMES: Known by various regional names, including "Palo de Campeche" in Spanish-speaking regions.

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION:
Haematoxylum campechianum is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, typically growing up to 15 meters in height. The tree features dark, rough bark and pinnate compound leaves with small, bright green leaflets. Its striking feature is the heartwood, which is dense and yields a deep, dark red dye when oxidized.

USEFUL PART(s):

Heartwood: The heartwood of Haematoxylum campechianum is used to produce a natural dye. The red dye obtained from the heartwood, known as "logwood dye," has been historically valuable in the textile industry.

GENERAL USES:

Dye Production: The heartwood of this tree is known for producing a rich red dye. Logwood dye has been used for centuries to color fabrics, especially in the textile industry, and it was historically a significant export from the Americas.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION:
Haematoxylum campechianum is native to Central America and the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. It has also been introduced and cultivated in other tropical and subtropical regions.

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Natural Dye: The use of logwood as a natural dye promotes sustainability in the textile industry. It offers an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

Habitat Preservation: Sustainably managed logwood harvesting can encourage the conservation of natural habitats and provide economic incentives for protecting these trees.

FUN FACT:

Logwood was so highly prized as a dye that it played a role in colonial trade and was a significant part of the economic history of the Caribbean and Central America.

Further Reading:

[Link to a relevant article or resource about Haematoxylum campechianum and its historical significance.]