It is the sole species in genus Curtisia, which was originally classed as a type of "dogwood" (Cornaceae), but is now placed in its own unique family Curtisiaceae.

It is increasingly popular as an ornamental tree for gardens, with dark glossy foliage and sprays of pure white berries.

The bark of this tree is a very popular component of traditional African medicine, leading to overexploitation and a decline in the species in some areas of South Africa.

Its genus name, "Curtisia", is from the botanist William Curtis (founder of The Botanical Magazine) and "dentata" is simply the Latin for "toothed", referring to the slightly serrated margins of its leaves.

A medium to tall evergreen tree (up to 15 m (49 ft) in height), usually immediately recognizable due to the striking contrast between its dark, glossy foliage and its sprays of cream-white berries.

The leaf surface is smooth and dark glossy green, while the stalks and the twigs are covered in silky reddish hair.

The bark of this tree is widely used as a traditional medicine for curing stomach ailments and diarrhoea.