This entheogenic (literally "becoming divine within") species is used in West Africa for its stimulant, aphrodisiac, psychedelic, and even poisonous effects, caused by its mixture of psychoactive alkaloids in the bark and seeds. Traditionally, Voacanga africana is used in low doses to increase endurance for long hunts and dances and to induce visionary experiences. The tropical evergreen tree has yellow or white five-petaled flowers and speckled fruit that contains seeds embedded in orange flesh. They grow up to 6 m (20 ft), though can be smaller in cultivation. The germinating seeds are susceptible to fungal infection and must be treated with particular care.