Family: Apocynaceae
Acokanthera schimperi, known as the arrow-poison-tree or common-poisonbush, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to eastern and central Africa and parts of Yemen. It typically grows 5–9 meters tall with glossy, leathery leaves and clusters of fragrant pink to white flowers, followed by red to purple berries. The species thrives in dry forests, bushland, and grasslands at mid-elevations, and its fruits are dispersed by animals.
The plant is best known for its extreme toxicity, as all parts contain potent cardiac glycosides. Traditionally, its extracts were used for arrow poisons that remained lethal for decades. While the ripe fruit pulp is sometimes eaten in times of scarcity, unripe fruits and seeds are dangerous and have caused accidental poisonings. Beyond its toxic reputation, A. schimperi also has cultural uses: its wood serves for tools and fuel, and plant parts are used in traditional medicine and as insect repellents.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical/subtropical climates.
- Highly toxic to animals and humans.
- Tolerates a wide range of soil types.
- Reproduces effectively by seed.
- Readily pollinated by common bees.
- Seeds dispersed by birds and humans.
- Resprouts after cutting or damage.
Low Risk Traits:
- Not documented as a weed elsewhere.
- Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs.
- No persistent seed bank.
