Characterisation of Baobab in selected wild populations in Malawi

Adansonia digitata L. is a multi-purpose indigenous fruit tree with high nutritional and economic value. However, limited studies have been undertaken on Adansonia digitata particularly in Malawi. This study was conducted to characterize five selected wild baobab populations using morphometric characteristics. A total of 135 trees and 1350 fruits were assessed. Results showed significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) in diameter at breast height, fruit width and length, fruit-length-width ratio and fruit weight between populations. Karonga population had largest tree diameter (309.05±19.50cm), Salima population had the longest fruits (15.49±0.20cm) and Karonga population had the widest fruits (8.43±0.10cm). Neno population produced smallest fruits but with the highest fruit-length, and width ratio (2.07±0.03). The diversity of fruit shapes found were: fusiform, ovate, spheroid, ellipsoid pointed, rhomboid, ellipsoid, high-spheroid, obvate, spheroid-emarginate, oblong, oblong pointed and oblong compressed. Many trees had grey bark colour (94%) with most of them having a smooth bark (92%). The dominant tree shape was roundish (56%). The majority (65%) of trees had spreading growth habit. The dominant trunk shape was cone-shape (56%). The study has revealed high Adansonia digitata L. tree diversity existing in Malawi that can be used in selection. Further studies should investigate the relationship between tree growth characteristics and fruit quality and productivity.