Spirostachys africana, commonly known as Tamboti or African Sandalwood, is a deciduous tree native to the low-lying areas and riverine woodlands of Southern Africa, including South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It typically grows up to 33 feet (10 meters) tall and is characterized by a straight trunk with rough, grey-black bark. The leaves are small, elliptic, and turn a striking bright red in winter before they fall. Tamboti blooms with inconspicuous, catkin-like flowers, followed by small capsules that create a popping sound when they split open to release seeds.

Tamboti is valued for its beautiful red foliage in winter and its fragrant, dense timber, which is used in fine woodworking and furniture making. Due to its toxicity, it is not commonly used in residential areas but may be found in larger landscapes or conservation areas where its ecological role can be appreciated. It requires well-drained sandy soils and is tolerant of drought once established. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade. Gardeners should handle this tree with care, as all parts contain a poisonous latex that can cause severe irritation. The latex has been traditionally used as a fish poison and on arrow tips for hunting. Despite its toxic nature, Tamboti plays a crucial role in its native ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.CC BY-SA 4.0