Erythrophysa transvaalensis is an exciting semi-deciduous shrub or small tree, suitable for small gardens in frost-free areas. Erythrophysa transvaalensis grows up to 4 or 5 m in height with slender stems branching from ground level or just above the base. The bark is brown, smooth and shiny. The stems are slender and brittle. The graceful leaves are compound, with about 7 pairs of leaflets and a terminal one. They are dark grey-green and crowded at the ends of the branches. The attractive flowers are produced in erect panicles before or with the new leaves. They are green, suffused with red. The flowers have four clawed petals and straight, protruding stamens. The fruit is a large, balloon-like structure, three-angled, with three chambers; each chamber contains 1 or 2 large, round, smooth black seeds. The seeds are reported to be used by African women to make beads. Although this tree has great potential as a garden plant, it is not widely grown at present.