Fiddlewood, Spiny Fiddlewood, Jamaican Fiddlewood, Bois Fidéle
Citharexylum spinosum
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Fiddlewood provides valuable resources in a permaculture system. It's a beautiful ornamental tree offering shade and windbreak potential. The fragrant flowers attract pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. While the fruit is reportedly enjoyed by birds, its edibility for humans is uncertain, suggesting caution. The wood is durable and potentially usable for crafting or construction, though sustainable harvesting practices should be implemented. It can be incorporated into agroforestry systems or used for erosion control on slopes due to its root system.
Permapeople description
Citharexylum spinosum, commonly called fiddlewood, is a species of tree in the Verbenaceae family that is native to tropical America and the Caribbean.
Botanical description
Citharexylum spinosum is a fast-growing, evergreen to semi-deciduous tree typically reaching heights of 40-50 feet (12-15 meters), though it can grow larger under optimal conditions. The trunk is often multi-stemmed with a greyish-brown, fissured bark. Leaves are simple, opposite, elliptic to oblong, and leathery with a glossy dark green surface. Fragrant, creamy-white flowers are borne in long, drooping racemes that can reach up to 1 foot (30 cm) in length. These flowers are followed by small, fleshy drupes that mature from red to black. The tree often possesses small spines, particularly when young, giving it its specific epithet 'spinosum'.
Companion planting
Citharexylum spinosum pairs well with other tropical and subtropical plants that appreciate partial shade and well-drained soil. Consider companion planting with understory shrubs that benefit from filtered sunlight. Avoid planting near species that are highly susceptible to similar pests or diseases. The tree's ability to attract pollinators makes it a beneficial addition to any garden, improving fruit set in nearby fruiting trees and shrubs.
Propagation methods
Citharexylum spinosum can be propagated through several methods. Seed propagation is possible, though scarification or soaking may improve germination rates. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer can be rooted with the aid of rooting hormones. Air layering and grafting are also viable options for propagating desirable cultivars or specific characteristics.
History and traditions
Historically, Citharexylum spinosum has been used in traditional medicine systems in the Caribbean and other tropical regions where it grows. The bark and leaves have been employed to treat various ailments, including fever, skin conditions, and digestive issues. The durable wood has been used for construction, furniture making, and crafting musical instruments, particularly fiddles, which contributes to the common name 'fiddlewood'.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs from late spring through summer (May-August). Fruit maturation follows, occurring from late summer into fall (August-October). Planting is best undertaken during the rainy season to ensure proper establishment. Pruning, if necessary, should be done after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.