The Baphia genus belongs to the Fabaceae family. It consists of shrubs, small trees and vines.

Baphia massaiensis or Sand camwood as it is commonly known is a South African indigenous shrub or small tree 2-4m in height. It has dark brown to reddish-black bark and dull green conspicuously veined leaves. From spring to summer it bears sprays of strongly jasmine scented white crinkled flowers. This plant is very attractive. The tree is sometimes harvested from the wild for local use as a coffee substitute and for making toothbrushes.