Small to medium evergreen tree (up to 15 m), with a dense, rounded crown and smooth, grey bark. Leaves are simple, alternate, elliptic to oblong, dark green and glossy above, paler below, with entire or slightly toothed margins. Small, white, fragrant flowers in axillary clusters (spring – summer), followed by small, red to black berries. Visually attractive for its glossy foliage and fruit. Important shade and understorey tree in forests and moist woodlands.
Insects:Flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Wildlife:Fruits eaten by birds and small mammals.
Soil:Not a nitrogen fixer.
Ecosystem Services:Shade, habitat for forest fauna, soil stabilization.
Small, white, fragrant flowers attract insects. Berries are eaten by birds and small mammals; seeds dispersed by animals.
Fruits are a food source for fruit-eating birds; dense foliage offers shelter.
Collect ripe berries, remove pulp, sow fresh in moist, shady conditions; germination in 3 – 6 weeks.
Not available
Used in traditional medicine for fever, stomach ailments, and as a protective charm. Wood sometimes used for small implements.
