Schotia is a genus of 4 or 5 species in the legume family, Fabaceae. It belongs to the sub family Caesalpinioideae. They are evergreen or deciduous shrubs and small trees from the hot, dry areas of central and southern Africa. They are grown for their showy clusters of flowers which are followed by protein-rich, oblong leathery pods. They need a warm, frost-free climate and shelter from wind and grow best in full sun and light to medium well-drained soil. Propagate from seeds or cuttings in spring.

Schotia brachypetala is a handsome, medium to large tree with a wide-spreading, densely branched, rounded crown. It has a single trunk that sometimes branches low down. Trees can reach a height of 22 m, but most commonly grow 11 to 16 m with a spread of 10 to 15 m. The bark is rough and brown or grey brown. The leaves are reddish to coppery when young, turning bright green and maturing to a glossy dark green. In warm frost-free areas this tree is evergreen, but in colder regions it is deciduous, losing its leaves for a short period in winter to spring. The flowers are rich deep red, and are produced in masses, in dense branched heads on the old wood during spring. The flowering time is somewhat irregular in that a tree in bloom may be a few meters away from one that has no sign of flowers. This irregularity is of value to the nectar feeding birds, and ensures a longer feeding season. Schotia brachypetala grows easily, transplants well and blooms whilst still relatively young. It can be pruned to shape and can be grown as a bonsai specimen when it is best suited to upright styles.