Canthium inerme is a beautiful tree or shrub belonging to the Rubiaceae family.  Because of its ability to adapt in a wide range of habitats this tree exhibits variability in terms of growth form and size. In forest conditions, C. inerme can reach a height of 14m. In contrast, the trees in landscapes which are more exposed to environmental conditions grow significantly shorter in height (between 3 and 7m). Its common name in English refers to how much birds of all kinds enjoy eating the fruits, while the Afrikaans name, ‘Bokdrol’, means buck droppings, and refers to the appearance of the fruits. This tree has a wide distribution range from Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Kwazulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Western Cape.

Although this tree’s epithet ‘inerme’ suggests that it does not have spines, Canthium inerme has thorns which exist in opposite pairs, at perfect right angles on the branch. These thorns often become branches in their own right, similarly at striking right angles – both to the parent branch, and to the neighbouring pairs of branches. The narrow to broadly elliptic leaves are also borne in opposite pairs. These light green leaves are small and glossy. From August to January the Turkey berry produces white flowers. Each tree produces both male and female flowers, but they are functionally unisexual. These are followed by dark brown berries which remain on the tree for a long time.

This evergreen tree is a perfect choice for gardeners who want to bring wildlife to the garden, as it is pollinated by bees, it is also the host plant for one butterfly and four moth species. This spiny shrub makes a good addition to a security hedge and can also be pruned into a formal hedge. It is a good element of bush clumps.