The Upside-down Tree!

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The Baobab Tree- Trees that can store around 
1, 20,000 litres of water in its trunk 




The Baobab is popularly known as upside-down tree because when the tree is bare of its leaves, the branches look like roots, giving it the appearance as if someone has uprooted the tree and re-planted it upside down. 

                                                            National tree of Madagascar

There are nine different species of baobab trees. Two species are native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Six species are found in Madagascar and one native to Australia. The species found in Southern Africa is of the genus "Adansonia Digitata”. Baobab is the National tree of Madagascar. 

The Tree of Life 

The native people of Africa and Madagascar call Baobab tree the “tree of life” because it gives so much to humans-food, shelter, water and clothing. Baobabs' enormous trunks have been used as pubs, jails, chapels and post offices by native people. 


These odd looking trees can store around 120,000 litres (32 000 gallons) of water in its swollen trunk. During drought when water is deficient, people living near this tree tap the bark to extract the water. Also, herds of elephants often overthrow the trees looking for water. 

The fruits of the baobabs are called “monkey bread” or “cream of tartar” fruit. Cream of tartar, a potassium/salt powder used in the baking process, was once derived from the fruit of the Baobab tree by making a powder from the seeds. Today, however, cream of tartar is made as a by-product of the wine-making industry. 

Fire Resistant Bark 

Since the cork-like bark of the tree is soft and fibrous, it can be woven into cloth or fashioned into a strong rope. Further, the tree bark is fire resistant and so the clothing made from it also provides some protection from fire. 

Long Lifespan

Baobab trees can live for over 3,000 years. However, the lifespan of the baobab is difficult to find without radiocarbon dating as they do not produce annual growth rings. 

The Order of the Baobab is a South African civilian national honour, instituted in 2002. It is awarded annually by the president to citizens for distinguished service in the fields of business, and the economy, science, medicine, and technological innovation; or community service. It was named in recognition of the baobab's endurance, and its cultural and environmental importance. 
Picture courtesy Department of sports arts and culture, SA website 

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