A protected tree indigenous to South Africa characterised by a spreading flat crown. Afzelia quanzensis occurs from Somalia in the north to Kwazulu Natal in the South. This tree is found growing naturally in low-lying woodlands, dry deciduous or sandveld forests, dense bushlands, around lake basins or at edges of dry evergreen forests. It is usually a dominant species in areas with deep sandy soils.

Afzelia quanzensis is deciduous and has  a straight trunk that can grow up to 1m in diameter. The bark is very smooth, grey-green and beautifully patterned with raised rings that flake off irregularly in circular patches. The leaves are alternate and compound. New foliage is copper coloured and glossy, becoming dark green with age. The pod mahogany flowers in March and April and the seeding period stretches from October to December. The large, flat, woody, broad bean-like pods appear in January. These pods ripen between April and June to expose the black and red seeds.

Although it is very drought resistant, A. quanzensis is frost sensitive and slow growing in colder areas. This tree is ideal for parks and gardens and is one of the best indigenous species for bonsai.