On Earth, many regions are not suitable for human habitation, but across the vast expanse of the world, people always find various ways to survive, with nature playing a significant role in this process. In Africa, a continent with a dry and rainy climate, many people live thanks to a miraculous plant. This plant not only produces water resources but also serves as food and can even be used as shelter.
This miraculous plant is the baobab tree, which is widely distributed in tropical countries such as the African continent. Interestingly, the hotter and drier the region, the better the baobab tree grows. The baobab tree can grow up to about 20 meters tall, with extremely thick trunks resembling water bottles. It can withstand average temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius, making it very suitable for growth in hot and arid regions. In the daily lives of African people, the baobab tree is indispensable, and many villages are even formed around baobab trees.
The baobab tree holds such a high status in Africa primarily because it can provide an ample water source. Africa’s reputation for being dry and receiving little rainfall is well-known, making it challenging to find water sources in many areas. Even drilling wells may not always yield water. However, the baobab tree addresses this water scarcity issue. It possesses a robust water storage capacity, and its trunk is not just reminiscent of a water bottle; it actually functions as one, containing a large amount of water internally. It is said that a single baobab tree can satisfy a family’s annual water needs.
In addition to providing ample water resources, the fruit of the baobab tree is also edible and serves as a primary food source in the local area. The fruit of the baobab tree is rich in starch, making it similar to eating bread. Just one fruit can satisfy a person’s hunger for a meal, and even those with smaller appetites may struggle to finish it. Furthermore, local monkeys also enjoy the fruit of the baobab tree, hence the name “baobab,” derived from the association with monkeys.
With food and water taken care of, the only thing left is shelter, and even this need is fulfilled by the baobab tree. Due to its enormous size, many people hollow out the baobab tree to use it as a dwelling. Additionally, even its bark serves as excellent building material. Therefore, a single baobab tree can meet most of the needs of the local people, earning it the title of the “tree of life” without question.