A fast growing, shapely evergreen tree or shrub 2-10 m with a thin trunk, often leaning, and with low sweeping branches. Branches tend to be at right angles to the trunk. A good tree for firewood and charcoal. Intercrop with coffee or as an ornamental. This species, when in full bloom, is a wonderful sight. As the fruit ripens it becomes soft and changes from green-yellow to black. It falls to the ground, where mammals spread the seeds. At the black stage the fruit should be crushed and the seeds separated from the pulp.