Damburneya coriacea, commonly known as the Lancewood, is a shrub or small tree native to the Caribbean, particularly thriving in the understory of tropical moist forests and limestone hills. It exhibits a moderate growth rate and typically reaches a height of 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters). The Lancewood features a dense, evergreen foliage with leathery, lance-shaped leaves that contribute to its common name. While the flowers are not particularly showy, they are followed by small, purple-black berries that are attractive to birds and other wildlife.

Lancewood is valued for its hardy nature and adaptability to a range of cultivation conditions. It is often used in tropical and subtropical gardens for its dense foliage and as a backdrop for more colorful plants. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in medium or fast-draining loam or sandy soils. Regular watering is necessary, but the plant is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It is not commonly afflicted by serious pests or diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. However, it is important to note that the berries can be messy if the shrub is planted near walkways or patios.CC BY-SA 4.0