East African greenbark

Warburgia ugandensis, also referred to as East African greenbark, is a species of evergreen tree in the genus Warburgia. It is distributed across several East African countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zaïre. The wood of this tree is highly valued for its resistance to insect attack and its strength, making it suitable for use in the construction of the Disselboom, a yoke pole for ox-wagons. Additionally, the leaves of the tree were historically used by early Indian immigrants in Kenya to add a hot flavor to their curries, before the widespread use of the chili plant. The flavor imparted by the leaves is distinct and different from that of traditional chili peppers.