The Marula is a medium to large tree, usually 9 meters (25 feet) tall. It is single-stemmed with a dense, spreading crown and deciduous foliage. Fascinatingly enough, only the female trees bears fruits, while the male tree displays flower.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZXkic-k3qHBRJbvyVUC1hFi_iFnphvtCDIKlYrmegG8wbVTb12a35Gx0nkHbjHWujZyJpmXI2TgPYs5-TKlDdzTR-XqcMCYegxirC-r1WvsfGiXwYr-s7n4CQv1yjpGHE2cHbpy4qhi_/s320/101_5697.jpg)
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzbfKA86J73MVMz-RqpLJc6v8N5YzzWas31Dj93q5JKf4MF2ARGUL68zFwXt3WkETiO9TK4w0TvXBjVc_u5DhpaKWhV82y3_MpoQeava1me5KqG-sksVyfIllckh2NMLeYdg-d8nX8Own/s320/101_5701.jpg)
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_IyFWbBvzdU8cyKC1BcWYtdJtP-Bfdbvyln5ilNju-8kYhfKcQ4DDqEoDCVtE2atwCnjgA1gMndEDs41nYIN0solMUsmFZP_dzJD4ys7RqP-JJ9PqBz_7D4GFGGfWioE5yoxZnm729BJ/s320/101_5706.jpg)
The bark of the tree has medicinal properties and is used widely in treating dysentery and diarrhea, rheumatism, insect bites and a variety of other ailments. Essence from the leaves is said to provide a remedy for abscesses, spider bites and burns. Preliminary tests show weak pharmalogical activity relative to hypertension, anti-inflammation and painkilling.