lignum

1), or Lignum-Vitae, n.

The name is applied to several trees, as Myrtusacmenioides, F. v. M., called also White Myrtle; Acacia falcata, Willd., N.O. Leguminosae,called also Hickory and Sally; but chiefly to Eucalyptus polyanthema, Schau., N.O. Myrtaceae.

1889. J. H. Maiden, `Useful Native Plants,' p. 505:

«[ E. polyanthema.] The `Red Box' of South-easternAustralia. Called also `Brown Box,' `Grey Box,' and `BastardBox.' `Poplar-leaved Gum' is another name, but it is mostcommonly known as `Lignum Vitae' because of its tough and hardwood. Great durability is attributed to this wood, though thestems often become hollow in age, and thus timber of largedimensions is not readily afforded. It is much sought afterfor cogs, naves and felloes; it is also much in demand forslabs in mines, while for fuel it is unsurpassed. (Mueller.)Its great hardness is against its general use.»

2) A bushman's contraction for any species of the wiry plantscalled polygonum.

1880. Mrs. Meredith, `Tasmanian Friends and Foes,' [writingof the Lachlan district, New South Wales] p. 180:

«The poor emus had got down into the creek amongst the lignumbushes for a little shade . . . I do not know what abotanist would call them; they are something like cane, butwith large leaves, which all animals are fond of, and they growabout eight feet high in the creeks and gullies.»

1896. H. Lawson, `When the World was Wide,' p. 135:

«By mulga scrub and lignum plain.»