Abarmot · Public domainPalo santo (Paraguay lignum vitae)
Bulnesia sarmientoi
A Chaco tree with greenish, heavy, fragrant wood; the symbol and scent of the western region.
What it is
A tree typical of the Dry Chaco. Its wood is very hard and heavy, with grain ranging from olive green to chocolate brown and an intense aroma thanks to its resins. Guaiac wood oil, used in perfumery, is distilled from it, and it is turned into guampas (cups for drinking tereré or mate), mortars and handicrafts. Logging for timber and forest clearing have endangered it, and its international trade is regulated.
Did you know…?
For people from the Chaco, the scent of palo santo is the scent of home. Its aromatic smoke is also used to keep mosquitoes away.
Season
Blooms in autumn (April and May), with short-lived yellowish-white flowers. Fruits from June to August.
Where
Forests of the Central and Dry Chaco: around Filadelfia, Loma Plata and Mariscal Estigarribia, Teniente Enciso and Defensores del Chaco. Palo santo crafts are sold in the Chaco and in Asunción.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 4 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.