Baobab Blooming and Fruit in Zanzibar 2024-2025

It is hard to find other plants in Zanzibar with the same ardent love of the locals as baobab trees. It is absolutely unique; it can not be confused with another. The circumference of some specimens of baobab trees exceeds 10 meters and its fruits reach a length of up to 54 cm! The extraordinary life force of the baobab is amazing. In contrast to many other trees, the baobab doesn't die after tearing off the bark, it grows back. If even one root keeps contact with the ground, the tree will continue to grow while lying down.

Baobabs can be seen everywhere in Zanzibar. However, especially large trees grow on Tumbatu Island, off the northwest coast of Zanzibar. Giant baobabs are the dominating vegetation there.

The fruits of the baobab tree, resembling large cucumbers, are characterised by an excellent taste and high content of various vitamins. Its nutritional value is similar to veal. Baobab fruits are used not only by Zanzibaris; they are very beloved by monkeys living among the lush foliage of baobabs—they are sometimes called "a monkey tree."

December is the best time to see a showy white baobab blooming.

In February the green fruit appears. And in May baobab fruits are ripe and begin to drop off. Baobab fruit seeds are edible raw. After roasting and grinding, tea can also be brewed from it. Baobab leaves are added to salads or boiled in soup. Baobab ash is used to make soap and cooking oil, for treating colds, dysentery, fever, insect bites, and so on.