Krugiodendron ferreum
Common Names Black Ironwood, Leadwood, Ironwood
Zones 10A–11
A slow-growing native tree of South Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America, Krugiodendron ferreum is prized for its dense wood, glossy foliage, and resilience in harsh coastal conditions. Found in rockland hammocks and dry uplands, it withstands drought, salt wind, and hurricane-force gusts. Though its flowers are inconspicuous, its architectural form and ecological value make it a standout in restoration and native landscapes.
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright shrub to small tree; rounded canopy; often multi-trunked
Height: Typically 15–30 ft (4.5–9 m); may reach 35 ft in ideal conditions
Leaves: Opposite; simple; elliptic to obovate; leathery; dark green; margins entire; apices often notched
Bark: Smooth to slightly fissured; gray to brown; may host lichens
Flowers: Small; greenish-white; axillary clusters; bloom in spring; no petals
Fruit: Drupe; purple-black when ripe; edible; attracts birds
Ecology: Supports birds and wildlife; fruit consumed by migratory species; extremely dense wood—among the heaviest in North America2
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Low; drought tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy, rocky, or limestone-based; well-drained; calcareous (high pH)
Temperature: Hardy to ~27°F (–2.8°C); protect from prolonged frost
Humidity: High tolerance; ideal for coastal and hammock conditions
Propagation: Seed; must be planted fresh
Tolerance: Salt wind, drought, hurricane winds, brief inundation
Landscape Use Ideal for coastal buffers, hammock-edge restoration, and specimen plantings. Use in dry native beds or as a slow-growing accent in limestone gardens. Pairs well with Simarouba glauca, Eugenia foetida, and Jacquinia keyensis.
Shipping & Order Info Plants up to 7 gallons All plants are treated and visually inspected for pests prior to shipping. Orders ship on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays the week after purchase. We do not ship to the following states: TX, CA, HI, AZ, NV.
Local Deliveries Please allow up to 72 hours for us to return a quote on delivery for any plants over 15 gallons.
Cancellations Cancellations must be submitted by Sunday at midnight before your scheduled ship date. Later requests will be reviewed individually. Orders requiring a carrier or local deliveries must cancel before any deliveries are booked. There will be no cancellations after booking. If cancellation is still requested, the buyer will forfeit any charges associated with delivery.
Returns Returns/Replacements are handled on a case-by-case basis. Cosmetic damage (e.g., minor leaf blemishes) is not eligible for replacement or discount. Shipping stress may cause temporary leaf drop or shock—this is normal and recovery is expected. If your plant arrives damaged or there’s an issue with your order, please contact us directly before leaving feedback. We’re committed to making it right.