Regarded as the largest succulent
plant in the world, the baobab tree is steeped in a wealth of mystique,
legend and superstition wherever it occurs in Africa. It is a tree
that can provide, food, water, shelter and relief from sickness.
Distribution
The baobab tree is found in areas of South Africa, Botswana, Namibia,
Mozambique and other tropical African countries where suitable habitat
occurs. It is restricted to hot, dry woodland on stoney, well drained
soils, in frost-free areas that receive low rainfall. In South Africa
it is found only in the warm parts of the Limpopo Province. It may
however be cultivated in areas of higher rainfall provided they are
frost free and don't experience cold winters. Derivation of name
and historical aspects: The name Adansonia was
given to this tree to commemorate the French surgeon Michel Adanson (1727-1806);
the species name digitata meaning hand-like, is in reference to
the shape of the leaves.
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