A Giant Among Giants
Artwork Description
“Set among an acacia forest in Zimbabwe’s Savé Valley Conservancy lies what could arguably be Africa’s largest tree. This giant baobab tree on Mokore Ranch measures approximately 137ft in circumference. The ancient baobab tree is often called the upside down tree as an Arabian legend claims that “…the devil pulled out the tree and planted it upside down.” A favorite of the elephants, the baobab has edible, hanging gourd-like fruit. The fiber from its bark is often stripped away and eaten by the pachyderms or is used to make rope or cloth by the African people. Its huge swollen trunk is often excavated to access its water reserves which can then be used for temporary shelters. The African baobab provides so much for so many, it’s no wonder it has been called the “Tree of Life.” – John Banovich
