Baobab (Adansonia grandidieri)

Physical Description

The Grandidier’s Baobab is the largest and most famous of the six baobab species found in Madagascar. It has a massive, cylindrical trunk that can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet) in height and 3 meters (10 feet) in diameter. The tree’s bark is smooth and gray, with sparse branches at the top forming a distinctive, bottle-shaped silhouette. The leaves are palmate, and the tree produces large, white flowers that bloom at night.

Environmental Concerns

This baobab species is endangered due to habitat loss from agricultural expansion, logging, and charcoal production. Its slow growth rate and the fact that it only grows in Madagascar make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Other Information

Grandidier’s Baobab plays a vital role in its ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various species. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its habitat and promoting sustainable land-use practices in Madagascar.