Adansonia perrieri

Capuron

Malvaceae Edible: Fruit 15 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Adansonia perrieri, or Perrier's baobab, is a critically endangered species of deciduous tree, in the genus Adansonia. This species is endemic to northern Madagascar. It has been documented in only 10 locations, including the Ankarana, Ampasindava, Loky Manambato and Montagne d'Ambre protected areas. Most populations, however, are outside of protected areas. Each location has few individuals (the largest subpopulation has 43 trees). With an estimated population of fewer than 250 mature individuals and ongoing habitat decline due to fire and cutting for charcoal and timber or clearing for mining, this species has been assessed by IUCN as Critically Endangered. There are three species of baobab found in northern Madagascar, all sharing the common name "bozy".

Description

A tree that loses its leaves. It grows 30 m tall. The trunk is large and cylinder shaped. It can be 3 m across. It forms branches near the crown. The fruit are oblong and 25 cm long.

Edible Uses

Fruits are collected for their edible pulp, and trees are cut for charcoal or timber.

Traditional Uses

The seeds are eaten raw.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Distribution

It is a tropical plant. It grows in dry deciduous forest at the tip of Madagascar. It occurs at about 650 m above sea level. It needs a sunny position and well-drained soil. They can tolerate drought once established.