Crown Jewel: Quiver tree

Aloe dichotoma Masson
Family: Asphodelaceae 

Quiver trees are tree-like Aloe species. Although the thick trunks of adult specimens make them look ancient, quiver trees rarely become older than 100 years. These trees grow surprisingly quickly under good conditions. They are called 'quiver trees' because their branches can be hollowed out and used as quivers.

Quiver trees grow in the very dry Namaqualand and Bushmanland of South Africa and neighboring Namibia. In order to survive in these dry areas, the plants have developed methods to better retain and use the sparse liquid that is available. They hold the liquid in their thick leaves and thickened trunk. In order to limit evaporation, their leaves are also covered with cuticle (a waxy layer). The light yellow bark of the plants has the same effect and reflects a lot of sunlight.

Many Aloe species - including quiver trees - are rare and protected worldwide. Trade and the transportation of these plants are only allowed if one has the correct permits. Customs agents regularly confiscate aloes. The Hortus cares for these plants until a judge decides what should be done with them. The large quiver trees that are now in the desert section of the Three-climate greenhouse were confiscated in the mid-1990s and eventually given to the Hortus.

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