A large shrub or small tree. Leaves broadly ovate, stellate pubescent, cordate, serrate, acute; petiole c. 2-3 cm long. Inflorescence an axillary, 4-8-flowered, umbellate cyme; peduncle up to 5 cm long. Flowers white, large, c. 4 cm across; pedicel 1-2 cm long; bracts 3 below the calyx, awl-shaped, 8-10 mm long, c. 2 mm broad. Sepals narrowly ovate-lanceolate, 1-1.5 cm long, c. 5-6 mm broad, densely pubescent outside, acute. Petals oblique, obovate, 1.5-1.8 cm long, 1.0-1.4 cm broad, obtuse. Ovary globose, villous. Capsule globose, densely villose.

Fl.Per.: December-February.

Type: Port Natal, Gucinzius 105.

Distribution: A native of south west Africa, introduced in tropical America and Asia.

A rapid growing, roadside tree cultivated for its beautiful, pure white, sweet scented flowers.