Commonly known as the forest raisin due to its edible red-brown 4-lobed fruits which turn black as they age, Grewia lasiocarpa is a large indigenous evergreen shrub. It is prevalent in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape where it naturally occurs on the forest margins. This shrub grows best in high rainfall areas, it is also tolerant to frost.

This fast-growing shrub can reach a mature height of 3-5m with a similar crown spread. The large leaves are rough-haired above and have soft hairs underneath. Grewia lasiocarpa bears beautiful pink flowers from January to March. These are followed by four lobed black fruits which remain on the tree for a long period. The fruits attract birds and wildlife.

The Forest rasin is a great addition to the garden, it can be used as a screening plant of for hedging. It can also be grown as an isolated specimen in medium-sized gardens. This tree is also suitable for container planting and bonsai.