Abstract:
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.
