Interesting facts about 8 of the oldest trees in Africa

Ben Ebuka March 24, 2023
Sunland Baobab, Limpopo, South Africa. Photo credit: Flickr

Africa is home to some of the oldest trees in the world, notably baobabs. This particular tree species on the continent is extremely large and predominant within Savannah regions. Aside from longevity, they are also among the largest and tallest trees in the world. Baobabs initially grow with one stem at the early stage and gradually develop multiple stems and segments over the years.

The large span of their branches offers enough shade for community gatherings in many African communities. Today, these trees, located in different parts of Africa, form part of the tourism components of the continent.

The largest and oldest trees in Africa, which are mostly baobabs, are in the Southern region of the continent, predominantly in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Namibia. Most of these trees, if not all, are over ten centuries old. The previous oldest tree in Africa, known as Grootboom, grew in Namibia and died in 2005, paving way for the current champion – Dorsland Baobab, also located in Namibia.

One interesting fact about these trees is how they have outlived several generations and are currently far older than the entire living human race presently on earth.

Last Edited by:Annie-Flora Mills Updated: March 25, 2023

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