Trichilia dregeana is a stunning large tree found in mid-altitude rainforests of West Africa, Uganda Ethiopia, and South Africa. This evergreen tree features dark foliage and a broad, rounded crown, capable of reaching a mature height of 30 meters with a straight trunk that divides into large branches.

The bark is smooth and pale grey in young trees, becoming slightly rougher and segmented as the tree matures. This gives it a somewhat buttressed appearance. The compound leaves have 4-6 pairs of leaflets plus one on a stalk. The lower surface of the leaf is paler, often hairless or with a few tiny hairs along the veins. The creamy-white flowers, produced in early summer, from October to December, are borne in dense, branched flower heads. Following flowering, attractive creamy-brown, green, or off-purple capsules appear. These fruits usually grow directly from the leafstalk but are sometimes borne on a short petiole of up to 3mm. The capsules split open to reveal six black seeds largely covered by a bright red to scarlet aril, a striking feature of the tree.

Given its substantial size, Trichilia dregeana is ideally suited for larger gardens. Its versatility allows it to thrive in high and low light conditions, making it adaptable to various garden settings. Its tolerance for low light has also made it an increasingly popular houseplant. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for lining streets and avenues.

Trichilia drageana is sensitive to frost, especially when young or newly transplanted, it should be protected from extreme cold for the first 2-3 years. This tree is very tolerant of fire, but can only tolerate mild, short periods of drought. This very decorative species has significant cultural and ecological importance. It provides food, medicine, and various commodities. The seeds are harvested on a commercial scale for the industrial production of pharmaceutical products, and for making soaps, candles, and cosmetics.