Belongs to the ditypic genus: P. madagascariensis and P. orientalis; tribe: Picrasmeae. Medium-sized tree reaching 25-30 m in height. Leaves spiral, compound, imparipinnate, 1-5 pairs of leaflets. Inflorescence an axillary panicle, hairy. Flowers male or bisexual. Drupe ovoid, leathery, turning pale yellow at maturity; seed crustaceous.

It differs from P. madagascariensis in the higher number of leaf glands, located further from the margin and leaflet blade less discoloured. This genus differs from Picrasma in the presence of mucilage reservoirs, the number of stamens double that of petals and the special structure of the embryo.

Phylogenetically, it is related to the monotypic genus Gymnostemon which is endemic to Ivory Coast (Clayton & al., 2007). Its bark is used for the preparation of drinks during the circumcision of young children and alcoholic drinks (Boiteau & al., 1971). Wood is used for construction.