Water
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a primary cause of root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Also known as Baobab · Madagascar Baobab
Adansonia madagascariensis, the grey baobab, is a deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its massive trunk and occasional ephemeral flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Requires full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours daily.
100% intensity
Essential for healthy growth and flowering.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce significantly in winter.
25% intensity
Risk of root rot from overwatering.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Prefers warm to hot temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C.
75% intensity
Protect from frost; can tolerate brief cool periods.
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
25% intensity
Balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a primary cause of root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is generally not required for aesthetic reasons. Remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.
If the tree becomes too large, severe pruning can be undertaken in spring, but this should be a last resort due to the tree's slow growth.
Propagation is best achieved from seeds, which require scarification (nicking the seed coat) and soaking in warm water to improve germination rates. Sow in a well-draining medium and keep warm.
Cuttings are difficult to root.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring as they become root-bound. Mature trees rarely need repotting. Use a gritty, well-draining soil mix. Be cautious when handling as the roots can be sensitive.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Grey Baobab (Adansonia madagascariensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Adansonia |
| Species | Adansonia madagascariensis |
Similar in genus Adansonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data