This article explores the remarkable characteristics and cultural significance of the baobab tree, highlighting its longevity, drought resistance, and importance in African ecosystems.
Baobab trees grow in arid and semi-arid parts of Africa, and have deep cultural and ecological significance. Some of these trees are thousands of years old. Global demand for baobab products has surged in recent years, driven by the fruit’s nutritional and health benefits. Baobabs are unique trees. They are among the world’s longest-living trees, with some being over 2,000 years old.
They can survive prolonged droughts thanks to their ability to store water in their huge trunks, which can attain a diameter of 10 metres or more. The trunk has amazing regenerative ability, easily growing back after damage by humans in search of fibre or from wildlife like elephants trying to quench their thirst. Unlike most trees, which are adorned with lush leaves, the baobab often stands bare for the greater part of the year. Its thick, leafless branches stretch out like skeletal arms, creating a weird and almost mystical appearance. The tree has a slow growth rate. It starts to flower and produce fruits from about 20 years of age. In many cases, however, especially in arid regions, trees give their first fruit much later, with some known to start at 60 years. The leaves are consumed as a nutritious vegetable
BAOBAB TREE AFRICA DRAGON TREE ENDANGERED SPECIES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
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