Amidst the lush greenery of Victoria Falls Zimbabwe stands a sentinel that reigns supreme: The Big Tree. From the depths of its roots to the tips of its branches, this natural wonder exudes a sense of awe and wonder for anyone lucky enough to stand in its shade.
Let us delve into the secrets and mysteries of this unique beauty that has silently watched over Victoria Falls for centuries.
The Big Tree’s Age
The Big Tree is a living testament to the passing of time, having stood tall and proud for over a thousand years. It is estimated to be over 1000 years old. Its gnarled trunk and sprawling canopy have weathered countless storms and witnessed the ebb and flow of generations of flora and fauna around it.
The tree’s age is a reminder of the resilience and endurance of nature, and the importance of preserving these precious treasures for generations to come. Standing in its presence, one cannot help but feel humbled by the sheer magnitude of its existence and the legacy it carries.
The Big Tree Species
The Big Tree, also known as the African Baobab (Adansonia digitata), is a species of tree that is native to the African continent. It is a prominent feature in the savannas and woodlands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
The Baobab tree is known for its distinctive appearance, with its large, thick trunk that can reach up to 25 meters in circumference, allowing it to store a significant amount of water in its trunk during the dry season.
The species is a marvel of evolutionary adaptation and has been vital to human and animal survival throughout centuries in Africa. The tree is often referred to as the “upside-down tree” since its branches resemble roots, which appear as if they are sticking up into the air, creating a unique silhouette that is unmistakable in the African skyline.
More than a century ago, the oldest sections of the Big Tree ceased to grow. Despite this, the tree’s remaining parts thrive and exhibit a remarkable vitality, yielding fresh leaves, fragrant blossoms, and succulent fruits all year round.
Its enduring resilience is a testament to the tree’s indomitable spirit, and a source of wonder for all who witness it. The Big Tree stands tall and proud, a living symbol of nature’s enduring power and beauty.
Some Interesting Facts About The Big Tree
The Big Tree possesses the remarkable ability to store up to 120,000 liters of water within its trunk, allowing it to withstand even the harshest of droughts. But that is not all, these trees also possess the unique capacity to generate new stems that fuse seamlessly with their existing counterparts, contributing to their exceptional longevity.
The baobabs not only amaze with their physical features but also offer an idyllic habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Its broad branches provide a sanctuary for small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles, fostering a rich ecosystem that thrives amidst the tree’s protective canopy.
The tree’s flowers, specially adapted for pollination by fruit bats and occasionally bushbabies, add to its allure and attract a variety of pollinators. Once fully matured, the baobab’s fruits are a prized delicacy for many creatures, ranging from baboons to elephants, and even humans.
The baobab stands as a towering symbol of nature’s bounty, providing for both its own survival and that of countless others, a proof to the interconnectedness of all living things.
The Baobab Fruit
The Baobab fruit also known as the “cream of tartar,” is one of africa’s most famous indigenous fruits. It grows on the Baobab tree which is often called, “the tree of life” due to its ability to survive in really harsh conditions.
The fruit itself is a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavours with a powdery texture that makes it perfect for use in smothies, juices and baked goods. What also makes the fruit special is its incredible nutritional profile. It is packed with antioxidants, fibre and essential minerals and vitamins.
Visitor’s Access To The Big Tree
The Big Tree is a remarkable natural attraction that can be viewed for free by visitors to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. It is located in the nearby Zambezi National Park a few kilometres from Victoria Falls town.
Visitors can take a leisurely drive through Zambezi drive or join a guided tour to the tree. As it is a protected species, visitors are not allowed to approach or touch the bark of the tree, but they can observe the tree from a comfortable distance or take a photograph.
While entry to the park is free, visitors should note that they may need to pay for transport, tour guides or park fees, depending on the arrangements they make. Nonetheless, seeing the Big Tree for free is a rare opportunity to witness one of the most magnificent tree species on the African continent.
Conclusion
The Big Tree of Victoria Falls is an absolute must-see for nature lovers from all corners of the globe. Its size, age, and unique appearance make it one of the most fascinating tree species on earth.
Standing before the Big Tree serves as a reminder of the vital role that nature plays in our world, and how we must strive to preserve it for generations to come. Whether viewed alone or as part of a guided tour, the Big Tree will leave you mesmerized, enchanted, and humbled by its grandeur.
So, if you are planning your next adventure, do not miss the opportunity to witness the magnificence of the African Baobab and maybe grab some baobab fruit t
