Rare Baobabs Need Protection: Experts
The Baobab, valued for its medicinal properties, can reach a girth of 20–25 metres. The famous Baobab at Golconda Fort, known as ‘Haathiyon ka Jaad’ for its massive trunk, produces flowers and fruits rich in vitamin C.
Hyderabad: Several rare and centuries-old African Baobab trees, native to Madagascar and mainland Africa, have survived in Hyderabad and surrounding areas, but experts warn they may not thrive much longer without proper protection. Calling for maintenance, experts said the trees, which are endangered species, appear stable for now but warned of risk if no measures are initiated to protect them.
Of the eight African Baobab species, Adansonia digitata—an exotic species—is mostly found in Hyderabad and nearby regions. The Chengicherla reserve forest had four such trees, but one succumbed to natural decay in March this year. However, there is no immediate threat to the remaining ones in the forest.
These iconic trees, known for their swollen trunks, are also found in Vanasthalipuram HUDA Park, Hyderabad Golf Club, Kodad and some private properties. A few trees transported from Dhar in Madhya Pradesh have been relocated to the new Experium Park, said Ranga Reddy DFO Sudhakar Reddy.
Nature lover and founder of Naturalist Kobita Das Kolli noted that 37 African Baobabs have been documented across Hyderabad, including locations such as Secunderabad Club, Chapel Road, Nanakramguda, Aramgarh, ZPHS Manikonda, near CCMB and Sanjeevaiah Park. She stressed the need for protection, explaining that scientific ring counting is difficult in baobabs due to their spongy water-storing tissue.
The Baobab, valued for its medicinal properties, can reach a girth of 20–25 metres. The famous Baobab at Golconda Fort, known as ‘Haathiyon ka Jaad’ for its massive trunk, produces flowers and fruits rich in vitamin C.
Describing the tree’s size, Vata Foundation trustee Uday Krishna said, “At least 20 people could easily fit inside the trunk.” He raised concerns about a Baobab in Kodad, currently in poor condition and overrun by creepers. “I requested officials to translocate the tree as it cannot survive in the drains due to excess water. I also urged clearing plants growing beneath the Baobabs in Chengicherla, as urgent maintenance is needed.”
To preserve this endangered species, the forest department has launched a plantation drive. “We collected 20 seedlings and transplanted them into polybags for regeneration. Once mature, they will be planted in a dedicated park or reserved area,” said Uppal forest range officer Sharath Chandra Reddy.