A large, evergreen tree that has occasionally reached a height of 50 metres. It has a tall, straight bole that can sometimes reach up for 30 metres before there are any branches. The heart-wood is grey-brown and handsome, but frequently cross-grained and difficult to work. The wood is durable and heavy. It has been used a great deal for outdoor work, being very durable and untouched by insects. The timber is used for furniture production and has been used in Kenya for bridge construction. The tree provides fuel wood. The tree is often harvested for its valuable wood. It is sometimes planted to provide cool shade. Habitat loss and excessive exploitation of the seed-producing individuals are resulting in poor regeneration and a global population decline. Plantations have been unsuccessful because of infestation by Hypsipyla, and the tree is now listed as & Endangered in the IUCN Red List(2009).