This monster is called a baobab or boab tree. We came upon it while driving along the road through arid southwest Madagascar. Our driver pulled over so we could take photos.
I don’t want to overload you (or myself) with facts, but it’s official name is Adansonia grandidieri or Grandidier’s baobab. Madagascar is home to six of the world’s nine species of baobabs and no one would dispute that these are the most impressive.
Their massive trunks are covered with smooth, reddish-grey bark, they sport beautiful bluish-green leaves, and they can reach a height of 100 feet. In spring they are crowned with spectacular outburst of white flowers.
But if you think this single boab is impressive, just wait a few days. We’ll be visiting a place called the Avenue of Baobabs that promises to be jaw-dropping incredible.
Mark Michelon says
ain’t no honey badgers there…haha, fun as always J and J.
Jim says
Yes, Mark, we have escaped unharmed from the terrors of the honey badgers.
Ray says
That’ one BABOAB.
Jim says
Took me a while to figure out the meaning of your comment, Ray, but it finally hit me about two hours after I first read it.
Catherine Sosa says
Wow. Love the shot.