Gonioma kamassi is a hardy evergreen shrub or small tree with a straight, slender stem. It grows 2 to 8 meters tall, depending on local conditions. This species primarily grows in the eastern Western Cape, especially in the Knysna forests, as well as in the Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal. Scattered populations also exist in the afromontane forests of Swaziland, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.

The leaves are opposite, leathery, and glossy dark green on top, with a paler underside. The tree produces fragrant yellowish-white flowers that bloom in compact clusters year-round. Its fruit consists of paired, woody capsules that remain attached while splitting open to release papery-winged seeds.

The genus name, Gonioma, derives from the Greek word for “angle,” while the species name, kamassi, reflects its Khoisan roots. This tree prefers shaded or semi-shaded areas and compost-rich soil. Gonioma kamassi makes an excellent shade tree for small gardens and is ideal for tall hedges.