[2] The tree grows between 7–25 m (23–82 ft) tall and is native to tropical dry forests of Africa.

The generic name comes from the Ancient Greek words σπαθη (spathe) and οιδα (oida),[4] referring to the spathe-like calyx.

The open flowers are cup-shaped and hold rain and dew, making them attractive to many species of birds.

[9] Unfortunately the flowers have a natural defence killing bees, and it is thought various other species who harvest its pollen.

It has become an invasive species in many tropical areas, such as Hawaii, Queensland (Australia), Fiji, Papua New Guinea, South Africa[11] and the wet and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka.

In Puerto Rico nine insect species in the orders Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, and Thysanoptera have been reported as feeding on various parts of S. campanulata.