It is a long-lived, very slow-growing tree, which can reach up to 35 m in height with a black trunk up to 70 cm in diameter.

The tree is found in lowland rainforests, primarily along rivers and streams.

Its common name is derived from the coast of southwestern India, Malabar.

[3] Unripe leaves and fruits were traditionally used to dye cloth black.

The wood is sometimes used in guitar and high-end furniture manufacturing for its distinctive black striped on off-white to golden beige background appearance.