Myrsine africana is a slow growing, much-branched, evergreen shrub or small tree growing up to 5 metres tall. The plant has a variety of minor uses and is harvested from the wild for local use. It is also often grown as an ornamental. The leaves are aromatic. The fruit is used as an anthelmintic, especially in the treatment of tape worm. It is also laxative and is used in the treatment of dropsy and colic. These are the active ingredients that work as an anthelmintic. A gum obtained from the plant is used as a warming remedy in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. A decoction of the leaf is used as a blood purifier. The wood is used for fuel. It burns quickly, even when green, because of its glandular leaves.