The splendid sunbird breeds in west and central tropical Africa.

Splendid sunbirds are 15 cm long, and have medium-long thin down-curved bills and brush-tipped tubular tongues, both adaptations to their nectar feeding.

The adult male is mainly glossy purple, with a dark green back and wing bar, and a crimson breast patch.

This species is a common breeder in wet savannah and woodland with oil palms, Elaeis guineensis.

The latter provide sap from the incisions made in the trunk to collect the liquid to make palm wine.