About Cussonia spicata Thunb.
Larger specimens of Cussonia spicata Thunb. develop a sturdy trunk and a rounded, spreading canopy, and can reach a height of 15 meters. Its attractive leaves grow at the ends of thick branches, forming rounded heads. The species epithet spicata means "spike-like", referring to the arrangement of this plant's flowers. This species occurs naturally from southern and eastern South Africa, northwards through the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia into tropical Africa. It has been used in traditional African medicine, and its medicinal properties are currently being investigated. A decoction made from its bark is used to treat malaria and indigestion, in a manner similar to tonic water. A decoction made from its root is used to treat fever and venereal disease, and also acts as a diuretic and laxative. A decoction made from its root bark is used to treat mental illness.
