Baobab: The Tree of Life

Comfortable and unique living accommodation, complete with windows The Baobab is called the Tree of Life with good reason. It is capable of providing shelter, food and water for the animal and human inhabitants of the African savannah regions.

The cork-like bark is fire resistant and is used for cloth and rope. The leaves are used for condiments and medicines. The fruit, called "monkey bread", is rich in vitamin C and is eaten. The tree is capable of storing hundreds of litres of water, which is tapped in dry periods.

Mature trees are frequently hollow, providing living space for numerous animals and humans alike. Trees are even used as bars, barns and more. The Baobab also features as the Tree of Life in Disney's "Lion King", and is the centrepiece in Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Radio-carbon dating has measured that age of some Baobab trees at over 2,000 years old.

Myths and legends

For most of the year, the tree is leafless, and looks very much like it has its roots sticking up in the air. There are numerous legends offering explanations of how the tree came to be stuffed in the ground upside down, so it could no longer complain.

And you thought you had a bad hair day? There are also numerous superstitions amongst native African people regarding the powers of the tree. Anyone who dares to pick a flower, for instance, will be eaten by a lion. On the other hand, of you drank water in which the seeds have been soaked, you'd be safe from a crocodile attack.

Want to know more? Have a look on answers.com.

Read about the African culture and traditions surrounding the baobab

Grow your own! It's a challenge

Grow your own baobab tree! this specimen is two years old

At around the time the company was formed, we were lucky enough to buy Baobab seed pods from a shop in Chester. They were being sold as ornamental seeds, but we knew what they were.

The smallest pod was sacrificed and the seeds were planted in a flower pot (having sampled the very tart fruit first).

Several seeds germinated. Through trial and error we managed to get some of them through their first few testing weeks. Too much water, and they rot. Too little, and they don't grow.

We now have four seedlings, the one pictured here being the oldest at just over 3 years. And it is going from strength to strength!

Baobabs seem to have a mind of their own. Some seedlings stay dormant whilst others grow at a phenomenal rate.

Our Logo

Baobab and Bushmen: Silver sculpture by Patrick Mavros In our search for a Baobab with true character, we came across a silver sculpture, called "Baobab and Bushmen", by the Zimbabwean artist, Patrick Mavros. His work is exceptional. He has regular exhibitions in the UK, and now a store on Fulham Road, London.