Acokanthera oppositifolia

Bushman’s Poison (e), Boesmansgif (a) inHlungunyembe (z)

S.A. No. 639

Hardy, drought resistant, evergreen shrub or small tree with thick, leathery, dark green leaves tinged with purple that turn completely purple in winter. The new growth is red. The beautifully scented white flowers are tinged with pink and appear from June to Oct. followed by large red to purple fruit from September to April. Fruit eaten by birds and bats. All parts of the plant are toxic. The bark was used to prepare potent arrow poison. Used medicinally against snakebite. A very decorative shrub for the garden and can be used indoors or outdoors as a container plant. Grows well in shade.

Size 3 to 5m