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The moringa tree is a rising star in South Africa where it is increasingly playing a variety of social and economic roles, especially among the rural poor. Also known as the horseradish tree, moringa has been referred to as the miracle or magic tree because of its reported health, nutrition and some industrial applications. Through document review, this paper reviews these claims that include the treatment of cancer and diabetes, and its nutritional value to humans, livestock and crops plants, among other applications. Drawing from lessons in the commercialization of Rooibos and cannabis cases, the article highlights learning points that could aid South Africa identify and commercialize some aspects of the moringa as part of its economic development efforts and creating the envisaged knowledge economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]