Baobab, common name for a tropical African tree (see Mallow). The baobab tree grows only to the height of a large maple tree, but extensive lateral growth makes it one of the largest trees. The trunk of the baobab sometimes attains a diameter of 9 m (30 ft), and the branches, frequently as thick as the trunks of other large trees, form a hemispherical mass of foliage often 45 m (150 ft) in diameter. The fruit, called monkey bread, is about the size of a citron; the pulp, which has a pleasing acid taste, is used in the preparation of cooling drinks. The bark of the tree yields a strong cordage fiber. The baobab, native to Africa, is now cultivated in many tropical countries throughout the world.

Scientific classification: The baobab belongs to the family Bombacaceae. It is classified as Adansonia digitata.