Baobab Trees Had a Strange Evolutionary Journey NYT: Science By: Rachel Nuwer 15 May 2024 at 11:00 New research shows the βupside-down treesβ originated in Madagascar and then caught a ride on ocean currents to reach mainland Africa and Australia. Β© Baz Ratner/ReutersThe βAvenue of the Baobabs,β a natural reserve of Grandidierβs baobabs near Morondava, Madagascar.