Bell-bean is a small, slender, evergreen tree with an informal branch structure, which may be straggling if not occasionally pruned. It has once compound leaves, a medium growth rate and non-invasive roots. Markhamia zanzibarica's bell-shaped flowers, flecked with maroon dots, are particularly striking and quite unique.  Bell-bean is quite frost sensitive and will not tolerate temperatures below - 0.5C. It requires modest amounts of water.  The tree's beautiful flowers make it an undiscovered jewel.