The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) is a long-lived tree native to Africa. It reaches heights of 70 feet and its trunk can grow up to 35 feet in diameter. The huge, bottle-shaped trunk is used to retain large amounts of water, which aid the tree during the dry spells common to its native region. It develops large white blooms in summer that open only after the sun goes down. The baobab tree should be planted in full sun and well-drained soil. It is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 10B to 12.

  • The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) is a long-lived tree native to Africa.
  • The huge, bottle-shaped trunk is used to retain large amounts of water, which aid the tree during the dry spells common to its native region.

Find a planting site that receives full sunlight most of the day and has fast-draining soil, as the baobab tree will not thrive if planted in a location that remains too moist.

Dig a hole that is equal the depth and double the width of the container the tree was purchased in. Plant the tree at the same depth it was growing before. Water until the soil is moistened all the way to the roots.

  • Dig a hole that is equal the depth and double the width of the container the tree was purchased in.
  • Water until the soil is moistened all the way to the roots.

Water when more than a week has passed without substantial rainfall. Do not soak the tree, instead add just enough moisture to lightly dampen the soil down to the roots.

Pull weeds and grass from around the tree as necessary.

Stop watering completely in early winter.

Remove broken or dead limbs and branches as necessary.

TIP

The baobab tree can also be grown as a bonsai.