The Black karee (Searsia lancea) is a tough, evergreen indigenous tree that is well suited to the South African highveld climate. It requires very little maintenance once established, and is an excellent choice for gardens, parks, farms, and commercial landscapes. Farmers have long used it as a natural guide to finding water. Where a Karee grows naturally, there is often shallow groundwater below the surface.

In nature, the Black Karee grows along rivers and streams, but it also adapts well to open plains and a wide range of soil types. It is highly tolerant of drought, frost, and wind. At maturity, it can reach a height of around 9 metres.

Its slightly weeping branches and dark green leaves give it an attractive appearance throughout the year. The leaves are made up of three narrow leaflets and release a pleasant aroma when crushed. As the tree ages, its smooth reddish-brown bark changes to a textured dark grey. The tree flowers from June to September, producing small, sweetly scented flowers. Only the female trees bear clusters of small edible berries, which attract a variety of birds and other wildlife.

The Black Karee is more than just an attractive tree. Its leaves provide valuable fodder for livestock during dry periods, while game such as kudu, sable, and roan antelope browse on its foliage. Its strong, termite-resistant wood has also been used for many years to make fence posts and farm tools.

With its non-invasive root system, the Black Karee is safe to plant in most gardens, where it provides shade, privacy, and shelter for birds. It is also an excellent choice for restoring disturbed land and creating water-wise, indigenous landscapes.