The Baobab tree can hold up to 120,000 litres of water in its trunk: There are nine species of Baobab; six in Madagascar, two in mainland Africa and one in Australia. The trees reach heights of 98 feet and trunk diameters of 36 feet. The Baobab is known as the ‘tree of life’ as every part is valuable – the bark is used to make rope and clothing, the seeds used to make cosmetic oils, the leaves are edible, the trunk provides shelter and stores water, and the fruit, known as ‘monkey bread’, is a rich source of vitamin C. the Baobab is the national tree of Madagascar.
The single Australian baobab species, A. gregorii, called boab, or bottle tree, is found throughout the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Reaching heights of about 12 metres (39 feet), the tree features the characteristically swollen trunk of the genus and bears compound leaves that are completely shed during drought periods. The white flowers are large, perfumed, and pollinated by hawk moths. Although that species was once presumed to be a remnant left behind when the Gondwana landmass broke apart 180 million years ago, the fact that the boab has not evolved to be markedly different from other baobabs suggests a much younger age for the species and that the boab originally came to Australia by long-distance seed dispersal from Africa.
All baobab species are extensively used by local peoples. Many species have edible leaves and fruits and are important for a number of herbal remedies. A strong fibre from the bark is used for rope and cloth in many places, and the trees supply raw materials for hunting and fishing tools. Naturally hollow or excavated trunks often serve as water reserves or temporary shelters and have even been used as prisons, burial sites, and stables. The trees are culturally and religiously important in many areas.
Credit : Britannica
Picture Credit : Google
