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growing - Baobabs

Adansonia digitata, baobab, mowana,
is indigenous to Botswana. Valued
for its fruit, among many other
amazing attributes, this tree is
steeped in legend, and is said to
live up to and above 1500 years.

WHY - For the fruit, which are highly
nutritious. Leaves and seeds can also BENEFITS - The fallen leaves in winter
be eaten. It makes a highly ornamental provide a very nutritious mulch. The fruit,
tree, due to its girth and unusual pulp, leaves and seeds of the baobab are a
shape. The flowers are very staple in various recipes and cuisines. The
attractive too. Planting it will yield pulp is high in vitamin C, antioxidants and
food for generations to come. several key minerals like potassium, magnesium,
iron and zinc. The leaves are rich in calcium
HOW TO PLANT - The baobab tree and high-quality proteins that can be easily
loves a frost free position, in shallow digested. It may benefit blood sugar control.
soils, due to its size which can
become unstable in deep soils. Plant PROPAGATE - The easiest way of
in a sunny location away from propagating baobabs is by seed. Scarify and
sow about 2cm deep, and keep evenly moist.
buildings. Baobabs are remarkably
drought tolerant, but will grow fast if WHERE - Baobabs are usually available at
watered. They do not need Sanitas, and other nurseries. Otherwise try
fertilizing, but cover with frost cloth to find some seeds to sow.
in winter. text & pics by S.C

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