Aloidendron dichotomum

Aloidendron dichotomum is a thickset tree aloe reaching heights from 3 m to 5 m, occasionally 7 m (SA Tree List No. 29).

The quiver tree in flower reminds of the gold of a kingdom of arid land survivor plants, where this majestic tree reigns with solemn dignity and gravitas over those that dont flinch or murmur when tested continually.

And yes, for those that admire them, they can be planted in parks and gardens where the drainage is sufficient. Other small matters of soil, temperature and rainfall also merit consideration. Heed the limits of the outdoor options to avoid loss and disappointment involving the art of the possible.

Here, in the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden at Worcester, aloe royalty, be they Aloe or Aloidendron species, thrive and flower in winter with the locals of the tribe, particularly Aloe microstigma.

The smooth quiver tree stem with its bicolour patches of old and young bark forms an interesting yellow-grey pattern. The edges where the patches meet may have blade-like sharp margins, so beware.

The species distribution is in the Northern Cape, slightly into the far north of the Western Cape and also in southern Namibia. It doesnt grow in the Namib and Kalahari.

The habitat is desert and semi-desert areas on rocky slopes, often dolomite, among scrub and succulents. It is usually the tallest of the sparse prevailing vegetation and unlike it in size and shape. The rainfall here is low, received in winter.

The species is considered to be vulnerable in its habitat early in the twenty first century, due to trampling by livestock, harvesting of the plants and climate change (Frandsen, 2017; Smith, 2017; Coates Palgrave, 2002; Van Wyk and Gericke, 2003; http://redlist.sanbi.org).