From the sweeping savannahs and riverine woodlands of the Kruger National Park to the dense rainforests that are found further up in places like Zambia, African trees shape the continent’s landscapes, providing shelter, food, and life itself.
These towering giants and hardy shrubs serve as the backbone of ecosystems, supporting everything from the biggest elephants to the tiniest insects.
Some trees are instantly recognisable, like the mighty baobab, the feathery acacia, and the gorgeous yellowwood, while others, although deeply rooted in both nature and culture, quietly serve their purpose.
Aside from their striking beauty, many of these trees are essential for creating traditional medicine, are central to some spiritual beliefs, and have even been used for survival purposes in Africa’s harshest climates.
Yet, despite their resilience to Africa’s usual elements, deforestation, climate change, and human expansion threaten the continent’s ancient forests. Protecting these trees means preserving the wildlife and communities that depend on them. Each tree tells a story, and these stories must continue to be told.
When you are on an African safari you will gain a whole new appreciation for trees. And in this guide, we’re sharing fascinating information about the best and least-known trees in Africa.
Some guides will tell you that the most common tree in Africa is the baobab, but that is not quite true. What is true about these trees is that they are certainly the most easily recognisable and they are hands down the most iconic.
But when it comes to the most commonly seen trees, the most widespread tree, spotted across the continent is the Acacia tree, particularly the Vachellia tortilis, also known as the umbrella thorn acacia.
Thriving in arid and semi-arid regions, this tree dominates landscapes from the Sahel in West Africa to the open plains of East and Southern Africa.
The umbrella thorn is instantly recognisable by its wide, flat canopy, which provides much-needed shade. Its bark, leaves, and seed pods sustain giraffes, elephants, and antelope, while its thorns deter many would-be grazers.
The tree also plays a significant role in traditional African medicine, with extracts used to treat infections and digestive ailments.
The baobab is without a doubt the most famous tree in Africa.
With lifespans stretching beyond 2 000 years, these colossal trees have become living monuments to the continent’s history.
Revered by local communities, baobabs have been used as meeting places, grain stores, and even makeshift shelters.
In some cultures, they are believed to hold sacred powers, and many legends tell of their origins, one such tale claims the gods planted them upside down, which is why their branches resemble roots.
Africa’s trees are more than just silent witnesses to the passing of time, they are the lifeblood of the continent’s ecosystems.
Many of these trees have adapted to extreme conditions, developing deep roots to find water or thorny defences to stop herbivores from stripping off all the leaves. Each tree holds a unique place in Africa’s natural heritage, and these are some of the remarkable trees you’ll see on safari.
1. Baobab (Adansonia digitata)
Often called the “Tree of Life,” the baobab is one of the most famous trees in Africa.
Its enormous, swollen trunk can store thousands of litres of water, allowing it to survive in the driest conditions.
The tree’s fruit, rich in vitamin C, is a staple for both wildlife and humans, while its bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine.
2. Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata)
A tree steeped in African folklore, the buffalo thorn is known for its spiritual significance.
It is often planted near homesteads to ward off evil spirits, and in some cultures, its branches are used in burial rituals to guide souls to the afterlife.
The tree’s berries attract birds, while its thorny branches make it an ideal nesting site for small animals.
3. Bushwillow (Combretum spp.)
The bushwillow family consists of several species found across Africa, and they are known for their tough wood and adaptability.
These trees feed browsers like kudu and impala, and their hard seeds are often used in traditional crafts and for making jewellery.
4. Lala Palm (Hyphaene coriacea)
The lala palm is a striking fan-shaped palm found in coastal regions and low-lying areas of Southern Africa.
This tree is highly valued for its multiple uses. Its fruit can be eaten fresh or it can be fermented into palm wine, its leaves can be woven into baskets, and its fibrous trunk can be used to make rope.
5. Knob Thorn (Senegalia nigrescens)
A true icon, the knob thorn is a vital part of Africa’s woodlands, particularly in regions where elephants frequent.
Its thick, deeply furrowed bark is resistant to fire, while its yellow flowers provide an essential nectar source for bees. Giraffes are especially fond of its leaves, making them an important part of the food chain.
6. Tamboti (Spirostachys africana)
The tamboti tree is one of Africa’s most fascinating, and toxic, species. Found in South Africa and Mozambique, this tree exudes a milky latex that is highly poisonous, making it dangerous to humans but useful in traditional medicine.
Despite its toxicity, tamboti wood is prized for furniture-making due to its beautiful dark grain and fragrant scent.
7. Weeping Boer-bean (Schotia brachypetala)
This tree is a spectacular sight when in bloom, with deep red flowers that attract a host of birds, bees, and butterflies.
The weeping boer-bean is named after the nectar that drips from its blossoms, creating a feast for nectar-loving species. The tree is also a favourite resting spot for large animals, as its dense foliage provides excellent shade.
8. Umbrella Thorn (Vachellia tortilis)
The umbrella thorn acacia is a keystone species of Africa’s savannahs, providing food and shelter for all sorts of wildlife.
Its distinctive flat-topped canopy is one of the most enduring images of the African landscape, making it a fabulous photographic subject.
Despite its delicate-looking leaves, this tree is incredibly hardy, thriving in desert conditions where few other trees can survive.
Just as Africa has its Big Five animals, South Africa boasts its own Big Five trees, and each is significant for its ecological, cultural, or economic importance:
1. Real Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius) – South Africa’s national tree, it is found in ancient forests and it is revered for its strong, durable timber.
2. Baobab (Adansonia digitata) – A legendary tree known for its enormous trunk and life-sustaining properties.
3. Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) – A tree famous for its fruit, enjoyed by both elephants and humans.
4. Leadwood (Combretum imberbe) – A slow-growing tree with some of the hardest, most durable wood in Africa.
5. Jackalberry (Diospyros mespiliformis) – A tree that thrives in the presence of wildlife, producing fruit relished by elephants, jackals, and birds.
South Africa is home to a rich variety of indigenous trees, but the most prominent is the Real Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius).
This huge evergreen has been part of the region’s forests for millennia, providing a habitat for birds and other wildlife. Its timber was historically used in shipbuilding and fine furniture-making.
Other native trees include:
● Wild Olive (Olea europaea subsp. africana) – A hardy tree with small edible fruit and dense, evergreen foliage.
● Quiver Tree (Aloidendron dichotomum) – A distinctive tree used by the San people to make quivers for their arrows.
● Stinkwood (Ocotea bullata) – Once highly sought after for its richly textured wood, now protected due to overharvesting.
A safari is not just about spotting wildlife—it’s about fully experiencing and enjoying the landscapes that sustain them. Africa’s trees tell stories of survival, history, and ecological harmony, and you can learn so much more about them when you travel to Africa.
When you book your safari make sure that you are travelling with a company that is passionate about all aspects of Africa’s great wilderness, like Kurt Safari. We have a range of exceptional safaris you can choose from, each designed to give you the best experience possible.
