African Safari Tree Species: A Deep Dive
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The African Savanna covers a whopping 5 million square miles (12.95 million square kilometers) and here, you’ll find an abundance of animals. But often the plant life of the savanna is overlooked, yet there are some incredible species to be observed. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to some of the most wondrous tree species that you may encounter on your African safari.
Trees to Spot On Your African Safari
From towering trees to swaying palms and those with beautiful flowers, the African savanna is home to an array of interesting species.
1. Acacia Tree (Acacia spp.)
The word acacia actually comes from the Greek language and the word akis which roughly translates to mean sharp point. It was given this name because these trees are often covered in sharp thorns, which serve as a method of self-defense. Many herbivores, like giraffes, are keen to feed on these trees, but the thorns stop them. Still, they’re white in color so they’re not hard to miss, and most animals will give them a wide berth.
There are actually more than 900 species of acacia tree, and they’re native largely to Australia and the South Pacific. However, one species, Sensu stricto, is native to the African island of Madagascar. There are a further 132 species found across Africa, with around 62 of these found in East Africa, including the whistling thorn acacia (Vachellia drepanolobium) and the wait-a-bit acacia (Vachellia brevispica). These trees can be characterized by their feathery leaves and canopies that form an umbrella shape.
Acacia trees look amazing, but this isn’t their only advantage. Certain species of acacia are used in the pharmaceutical industry, such as the Acacia Senegal, whose gum arabic is used as a stabilizing agent.
What’s more, since the acacia is such an adaptable tree, it can thrive in a multitude of conditions. This means that it serves as a resource for many animals, including elephants, antelopes, and giraffes; if they can get past those spikes first! On top of this, acacia trees bloom highly fragrant flowers that are essential for pollinators. But despite the tree’s adaptability, it is sensitive to environmental changes, which makes it a great indicator species.
But what I find most interesting is the mutualistic relationship that these trees have with ants. The ants take refuge in the trees, finding shelter and food while at the same time adding another layer of protection from herbivores. Both parties benefit from this.
If that wasn’t enough, consider that there are many species of acacia, like the Acacia karroo, that are nitrogen-fixing plants. This essentially means that there are special bacteria within the roots that convert energy to nitrogen, aiding the tree’s growth. But this nitrogen also ends up in the surrounding soil, improving its health. What’s more, this free nitrogen source could be of great benefit to farmers, who would then need to use fewer chemical fertilizers; that’s great news for the environment.
2. African Baobab Tree (Adansonia digitata)
You may not be familiar with the name baobab tree because oftentimes, this species is called the upside down tree or the tree of life. It’s not hard to see where the term upside down tree comes from since, when the tree is bare, the branches look like upturned roots.
But it’s not only the magical appearance that makes these trees so special; some individuals can live for thousands of years, so they’re among the oldest trees on the planet. In fact, the Sunland baobab in South Africa has been estimated to be around 1060 years old and is something of a global icon. Like other baobabs, this tree has a huge trunk, so it’s able to store thousands of gallons of water. In the African heat and often arid conditions, this is an important survival tactic.
However, once the trunks become hollow, humans have found many uses for them including for grain storage. But perhaps more interesting is the story of the Prison Baobab, which is thought to be 1500 years old and was used to house prisoners in Australia. Humans have also realized the nutritional value of the tree’s fruit, which is high in vitamins and antioxidants. The fruits can grow up to 9.8 inches (25 cm) and are covered in a thick, woody shell; they’re sometimes called monkey bread and are enjoyed by many species, including baboons.
Another reason that humans love the baobab tree is a more mythical one; African folklore tells us that spirits reside in the hollow trunks, so locals will go to any means necessary to protect these sacred trees. The tree is also highly symbolic and represents unity, wisdom, and life itself.
These trees also produce flowers that bloom at night. This makes them an important resource for nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats, which also help to spread the pollen and keep the species going.
3. Sausage Tree (Kigelia africana)
While the name may suggest otherwise, I can assure you that there are no meaty appendages on this tree. However, the sausage tree does take its name from the large, sausage-like fruits that can grow up to 23.6 inches (60 cm) and weigh as much as 10 lbs (4.5 kg)!
Although, it’s worth mentioning that the scientific name of the tree was given after a Scottish man named Dr Kigelia, who was the first to describe the tree in the 1700s.
The fruits are a popular food source for African wildlife, including hippos, elephants, and bush pigs, among others. However, the fruits are known to contain poison and should never be eaten raw. Cooking the fruit gets rid of the poison, and there are various health benefits known to consuming it, including its anti-inflammatory properties.
The sausage tree also bears beautifully fragrant flowers that burst open at night, creating a food source for nighttime pollinators who also help to spread pollen and aid in the tree’s reproductive cycle. These bell-shaped flowers grow on stems that can get as long as 25 feet (7.6 meters)!
The sausage tree is the only member of its genus, and the species is found in all tropical regions of Africa. Typically, these trees grow to around 66 feet (20 meters) in height and have a very wide spreading canopy.
4. Whistling Thorn (Vachellia drepanolobium)
The whistling thorn is a species of acacia tree that is covered in pairs of hooked thorns. Just like other acacias, these thorns are there to protect the tree against herbivorous grazers. But they also provide the perfect environment for ants; another example of that mutualistic relationship I discussed earlier.
But what is truly fascinating about this species is where it gets its name; it really does whistle. As the wind passes through the thorns, it makes a very distinct whistling sound. But this wouldn’t be possible without the aforementioned ants who burrow into the thorns creating a natural musical instrument!
Living in the extreme African conditions, it’s important that trees have ways of surviving, and the whistling thorn does this with its finely divided leaves. This allows the tree to retain water so it can survive hot and dry periods. This leaf structure also gives the whistling thorn its characteristic feathery look.
Whistling thorns are native to East Africa and can grow up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) in height. Each of the thorns can be as long as 3 inches (7.6 cm), but that doesn’t stop animals like elephants and giraffes from feeding on the leaves.
5. Fever Tree (Vachellia xanthophloea)
Another species of acacia, the fever tree, is found in countries like Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya, South Africa, and other Sub-Saharan regions. The tree was dubbed the fever tree because European settlers had the idea that standing too close could make you ill, but this was nothing more than a misconception.
The fever tree has smooth greenish-yellow bark and can grow up to 82 feet (25 meters) in height. What’s interesting is that bark is known for its antimicrobial properties. Moreover, it’s the bark that is responsible for photosynthesis in these short-lived trees, which are typically found in swampy areas. There are often many fever trees growing together, forming a forest, and one of the best examples of this can be seen in the Kruger National Park in South Africa.
While the tree does have thorns that can grow up to 7 inches (17.8 cm), the bark contains tannins which make it taste bitter and this is attractive to many grazing animals. The leaves fall is a sparse canopy that allows sunlight through but still provides enough shade so that the tree can retain water.
6. Jackalberry Tree (Diospyros mespiliformis)
It’ll probably come as no surprise when I tell you that the jackalberry tree gets its name because the fruits are a firm favorite of jackals (a type of wild African canine related to dogs, foxes, and wolves.) However, some people refer to the tree as African ebony since the wood is often used as an alternative to true ebony.
The Jackalberry tree is a type of evergreen tree that is actually related to ebony. It’s found in many African countries like South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe and has dense, dark green foliage and can grow up to 82 feet (25 meters) in height. More often than not, these trees are found in riparian environments and on termite mounds, but it’s not uncommon for them to grow in the sandier soils of the savanna.
In Africa, the jackalberry tree is thought to have many medicinal properties. For example, many believe that consuming the roots not only gets rid of parasites but can also cure leprosy. The fruit of this tree is often used in beer and wine making, while the bark is often used to stop bleeding because of the high levels of tannins.
7. Marula Tree (Sclerocarya birrea)
The marula tree is probably most well-known for marula beer which is produced using the fruits. In some African countries, this beer is called maroela mampoer, and the fruit is mashed into water before being left to ferment.
And it’s not just humans that can benefit from the high of this natural beer. When the fruit drops from the tree and ferments, it is said that it can make elephants drunk. However, while this is possible, the animal would have to consume an enormous amount to feel the effects.
Growing all over southern Africa, particularly in the Kruger National Park, the marula tree’s fruit is also a popular snack. In Zimbabwe, it’s reported that more than 24 million of these fruits are eaten annually because people want to make the most of their high levels of vitamin C. Plus, the fruit oil can be used in skincare products and for cooking.
Marula trees are deciduous and grow to a medium height of around 59 feet (18 meters). They’re typically found in mixed woodlands and on rocky hills and can be characterized by their single stem and wide canopy.
8. Quiver Tree (Aloidendron dichotomum)
The quiver tree, a species of succulent, has one of the most unique appearances of all the plants in Africa. This branching tree has a thick trunk and branches that reach upwards in a Y shape. They often grow on their own, but there are examples of quiver tree forests, such as the one in Keetmanshoop, Namibia.
You may wonder where this tree got its name, and it comes from the San people. They used to take the hollow branches and use them as quivers for carrying their arrows.
However, the quiver tree is found in very arid regions, but it is specially adapted to these conditions. Unlike other trees whose roots are buried deep down in the ground, the quiver tree has much shallower roots that spread widely. This allows it to absorb water on the rare occasion that it rains.
While the quiver tree doesn’t currently have an endangered status, the number of individuals is diminishing. This means that, in the future, it could become an endangered, even protected species.
9. Mopane (Colophospermum mopane)
The mopane, sometimes called the butterfly tree because of the leaves that form the shape of butterfly wings, is a tree in the legume family. They’re commonly found in the northern parts of Southern Africa and prefer low lying, hot habitats.
This species can grow as either a shrub or a tree, but what’s unique about them is their ability to grow in conditions where little else thrives. Since there isn’t a lot of rain where the mopane grows, it has specially adapted leaves that fold in on themselves during dry spells to prevent water evaporating from them.
Mopane leaves contain as much as 40% protein and in summer, the tree gets covered in mopane worms who feed on this goodness. Humans form the next part of the food chain here and will dry roast the protein-rich worms as an important source of nutrition. The tree also produces flat, kidney shaped fruits that contain a single seed.
10. Candelabra Tree (Euphorbia candelabrum)
The candelabra tree takes its name from its cylindrical branches which grow from the trunk vertically to form a rounded crown. However, the name is misleading as this isn’t a tree but a type of cactus.
This is a small species that typically only grows to around 39 feet (12 meters). Although there have been much taller specimens recorded at a maximum of 66 feet (20 meters). While juvenile candelabra trees have leaves for photosynthesis, they lose these as they reach maturity.
Candelabra trees are endemic to parts of eastern Africa and the Horn of Africa in arid environments. But while beautiful, these trees harbor a dark secret; they’re extremely toxic.
When they’re damaged, candelabra trees emit a high-rubber content latex, which is known to be very irritating to the skin. What’s more, if the substance gets into the eyes, it can cause blindness. So potent is this sap that hunters have often used it to make poison.
11. Weeping Wattle (Peltophorum africanum)
The weeping wattle is a deciduous flowering tree that’s found in the southern parts of the African continent, below the equator. This tree grows to around 49 feet (15 meters) in height and is one of the most beautiful thanks to its showy yellow blooms.
Weeping wattles are usually found in wooded grasslands but are incredibly hardy trees that don’t have a problem coping in drought or frost. For this reason, they’re a popular choice as an exotic ornamental plant in gardens around the world.
The species is sometimes called the rain tree due to the presence of spittlebugs that take up residence among the leaves in summer.
What’s great about the wattle tree is that it has so many uses. In the wild, many herbivores feed on the leaves, and pollinators get a real feast from those yellow flowers. What’s more, the wood of this tree is incredibly robust and is often used to make furniture.
12. Real Fan Palm (Hyphaene petersiana)
The real fan palm can be found in several places across Africa, including Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Namibia. This is a type of palm tree that has an amazing fruit yield; some trees can grow as many as 2000 fruits in a single season! These fruits, sometimes called makalani nuts, are bursting with protein and carbs, so are a popular snack for locals.
People will also hack away at the trunk to obtain the sap which is known as palm wine. However, this practice will eventually lead to the demise of the tree. Additionally, the aforementioned makalani nuts can be used to make a traditional liquor called ombike which is made by the Ovambo people; the largest ethnic group in Namibia.
But the real fan palm’s uses don’t end there. The leaves are strong and can be woven to make traditional products like mats and baskets, which have a long-standing cultural significance for local communities.
Real fan palms are incredibly tolerant to drought and are often found in arid environments where rainfall events are few and far between.
13. Toothbrush Tree (Salvadora persica)
It’ll hardly come as a surprise when I tell you that the toothbrush tree takes its name because the twigs have, for centuries, been used to make oral hygiene tools and natural toothbrushes. This is something that is important in a religious sense since it is said that the Prophet Mohammed recommended the use of this tree for brushing teeth. However, it’s also called the mustard tree, the miswak tree, or the arak tree.
This is an evergreen species that is found in the tropical areas of both east and West Africa. It also grows in India and the Middle East. You’ll find these trees growing along rivers and streams or anywhere else where groundwater is abundant.
The leaves of the toothbrush tree are also used by humans both in traditional medicine and to make dishes such as salads. You can also add the berries to dishes and the timber is often used as firewood.
14. African Tulip Tree (Spathodea campanulata)
The African tulip tree is known for its brightly colored, trumpet-shaped flowers that give it a vibrant appearance. The flowers are often said to resemble flames and begin blooming towards the end of summer, right through into fall.
These trees have a very wide, dense canopy and for this reason, have been favored as an ornamental species in warmer climates in North America, particularly California. Preferably, the African tulip tree prefers a tropical climate and it is sensitive to cold weather.
In Africa, you’ll find this species growing in dry tropical forests in countries that include Kenya, Sudan, Ghana, and Uganda.
As well as those stunning flowers, the African tulip tree also produces long fruits (growing up to 18 inches (46 cm)) that burst open to release a cluster of winged seeds.
15. Cape Fig (Ficus sur)
The Cape fig is a tree from the Moraceae family, which contains several other species of fig tree. This particular species is sometimes called the broom cluster fig owing to the clusters of fruit that droop from the tree in summer.
These trees are very large and can grow up to 115 feet (35 meters) in height. Their large canopies provide lots of shade, and this is one of their main uses in Africa. However, they are also an important food source for African bird species that love to feed on fruit.
Cape fig trees can be found both in grasslands and in tropical forests and are common in western Africa across to the Central African Republic. They prefer areas where there is ample water so can also be found growing along riverbanks.
16. Coral Tree (Erythrina lysistemon)
The coral tree is a deciduous species that is part of the pea family. You’ll sometimes hear people calling it the lucky bean tree. This is because traditionally, farmers would plant their crops when the tree flowers and always be successful.
Coral trees can be characterized by their smooth gray bark and impressive height. Some specimens may grow as tall as 131 feet (40 meters). What’s more, for between four and five months of the year, these trees completely lack leaves. However, the bright red flowers more than make up for this and bloom before the leaves in spring.
This species in native to South Africa where it is often used as an ornamental tree in parklands, thanks to its striking and unique appearance.
17. Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata)
The buffalo thorn is a deciduous tree that’s part of the Rhamnaceae family. Although it often goes by other names. One example of this is the Afrikaans name of Blinkblaar-wag-’n-bietjie, which loosely translates to mean ‘blink leat, wait a bit’ in reference to the hooked thorns that catch onto your clothing as you walk by.
In some areas, the tree is called bushman’s poison because it is traditionally believed that the San people cover the thorns in poison in order to keep enemies at bay.
But regardless of what you call this species, there’s no denying that it’s a very impressive sight thanks to the spreading canopy. Although this isn’t a tall tree, only growing to around 33 feet (10 meters) in height, it does produce deep red fruits around the size of a grape.
In autumn, the shiny green leaves turn a wonderful shade of yellow or orange before they fall off. Buffalo thorns also produce pretty yellow flowers and is a hardy species that is tolerant of both hot and cold extremes.
18. Leadwood (Combretum imberbe)
The leadwood is a species of bushwillow that is found in the tropical regions of southern Africa. These trees can grow to around 50 feet (15 meters) on average, and carbon dating has shown that an individual could live for more than 1000 years! It’ll come as no surprise then, that these are very slow growing trees.
Leadwood trees have a distinct cracked gray bark and are found in South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, and Angola, as well as several other countries in this region. They prefer a warm, dry climate but can often be found growing alongside rivers and other waterways. Traditionally, this tree is known as the monzo.
These trees produce sweet-smelling cream to yellow colored flowers as well as small yellow to green fruits. The wood of the leadwood is, as the name suggests, very dense and tough. However, with the right tools, it can be worked and is highly prized as furniture timber and is also used to make railway sleepers.
19. Cola Tree (Cola spp.)
Cola trees are found in tropical African forests and are known for their seeds which are commonly referred to as the cola nut. In many parts of Africa, these seeds are used as a stimulant thanks to their high caffeine content. The seeds are chewed and are often given as gifts to chiefs and other important visitors to a community as well as in ceremonies.
Of course, in the west, we know these seeds for their flavor in the popular soda drink, cola. But in Africa, they have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and are praised for their ability to aid digestion when taken with honey.
There are around 125 species of cola trees, including Cola alba, Cola nitida, Cola ballayi, and Cola gigantea, but they’re all members of the chocolate family. They can grow to around 66 feet (20 meters) and prefer to grow in sandy or loamy soil at low elevations.
