Zanthoxylum capense, commonly known as Small Knobwood, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to a variety of habitats in eastern southern Africa, including dry thickets, rocky slopes, and open woodlands from Knysna to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It typically reaches a height of 2-5 meters and has a spreading habit. The plant is characterized by its pinnate leaves that emit a citrus scent when crushed and its corky bark with conspicuous knob-like lenticels. Small Knobwood produces inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers followed by round capsules containing a single black seed. The fruit is aromatic and can be used as a pepper substitute.

Small Knobwood is valued for its ornamental features, including its textured bark and fragrant leaves. It is used in traditional medicine and as a food spice. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and is drought-tolerant once established. It is suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a specimen plant in residential gardens. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from frost in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0