Rare tree found in Delft Island

Priyanka KURUGALA

'Baobab is an extraordinary large tree said to have its origins in the African Savannah. The leaves of this tree is used as a meal for horses. These trees can store huge amounts of water and are very strong,' a senior official from the Archaeological Department said.

'Baobab trees can be found in places, such as, the Delft Island, Talaimannar and Mannar, which is a strange sight in Sri Lanka,' the official said.

Archaeological Department sources said Baobab was brought to our country by Arab traders during the Dutch period.

They were probably planted on Delft Island as it was an important location and a sanctuary for horses.