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The amazing baobab (Adansonia) or monkey bread tree can grow up to nearly 100 feet (30 m) tall and 35 feet (11 m) wide. Their swollen trunks are actually water storage – the baobab tree can store as much as 31,700 gallon (120,000) of water to endure harsh drought conditions.

Baobab trees are native to Madagascar (it’s the country’s national tree!), mainland Africa, and Australia. All parts of this amazing tree are useful. The young leaves are used as condiments and medicines. The large gourd-like, woody fruit contains a tasty pulp. Also called “monkey bread”, it is rich in vitamin C. The bark produces a strong fibre which is locally used for making rope and cloth. 

Mature trees are often hollow and provide living space for humans and animals. The baobab figures as the Tree of life in the film Lion King.

For most of the year, the tree is leafless and looks like it has its roots sticking up in the air. According to the legend, the devil uprooted it, thrust its branches into the earth, and left its roots in the air. There are also numerous superstitions regarding powers of the tree.