This tree, though growing plentifully on the plains and mountains in parts of Jamaica, is said not to be a native of that island. It is, however, a useful timber for house-building, being hard and tough. The gum animi used in varnishing is produced by the roots of this tree.

The weight of a cubic foot, when dry, is 42 lbs. The crushing force of a short prism 1 inch square is about 7500 lbs.; and the transverse strength of a specimen 1 foot long between the supports and 1 inch square is 750 lbs.