This shrub is one of three members of the genus, Acokanthera. It belongs to the same family as many popular sub-tropical, ornamental plants such as frangipani, allamanda and oleander, as well as the impala lily and num-num. This family is characterized by having sweetly scented flowers, and sticky, milky sap which is often poisonous. The Bushman's poison is a hardy drought and frost resistant evergreen shrub. It tolerates full sun but prefers shade. It also does well as a container plant.

Similar plants:

• Acokanthera oblongifolia, Acokanthera spectabilis, Carissa spectabilis (Bushman's Poison, Wintersweet)