1. There are eight species of the baobab, six of them are in Madagascar, one in Africa and one in Australia
2. The African and Australian baobabs are almost identical despite having separated more than 100 million years ago, probably by oceanic dispersal
3. The baobab is the national tree of Madagascar
4. The baobab trunk can hold up to 120,000 liters of water which is an adaptation to the harsh drought conditions of its environment.
5. The baobab tree’s fruit is highly nutritious. The fruit is high in vitamin C, antioxidants and several key minerals like potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc
6. The baobab flowers open at night and for one night only. They are pollinated by moths or insects who are attracted by the sweet, musty smell and the white color, then they drop off the tree the next morning
7. The Malagasy people believe the tree has magical powers
8. According to local mythology, the Baobab Tree was once a proud and beautiful tree that was punished by the gods for its vanity. The tree was uprooted and planted upside down as a reminder of its arrogance.
9. During the last 15 years, baobab trees that are thousands of years old have been dying mysteriously and scientists have no answer. One explanation is that this is a result of global warming.
10. Unlike other baobab trees in Madagascar, the baobab trees on the “Avenue of the Baobabs” in western Madagascar were planted by humans. Nevertheless, a visit to the “Avenue of the Baobabs” is an experience incomparable in its beauty and power that attracts tourists from all over the world