A broadly spreading shrub or small tree 5-14 m tall, with a dense crown. The bark is dull brown with vertical orange cracks. The younger stems bear sharp thorns, 1 to 1.5cm long. The leaves are 2-4 cm long, obovate and deeply lobed, sometimes almost to the midrib, with the lobes spreading at a wide angle. The upper surface is dark green above and paler underneath. The flowers are produced in corymbs of 5-25 together; each flower is about 1 cm diameter, and has five white petals, numerous red stamens, and a single style; they are moderately fragrant.
Herb Effects
Antispasmodic, cardiac, diuretic, sedative, tonic and vasodilator (fruit); astringent (berk)
For treating disorders of the heart and circulation system, especially angina, for inflammation of the heart muscle, arteriosclerosis and for nervous heart problems (herb); in the treatment of malaria and other fevers (bark); to stimulate the arteries of the heart (root)
Health Remedies 
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