Aloidendron dichotomum (Quiver Tree)

Scientific Name

Aloidendron dichotomum (Masson) Klopper & Gideon F.Sm.

Common Names

Quiver Tree, Kokerboom

Synonyms

Aloe dichotoma (basionym), Aloe dichotoma var. montana, Aloe montana, Aloe ramosa, Rhipidodendrum dichotomum

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Aloidendron

Description

Aloidendron dichotomum is an extremely tough tree that may reach an age of over 80 years and a height of up to 23 feet (7 m). It has smooth branches, which are covered with a thin layer of whitish powder that helps to reflect away the hot sun’s rays. The bark on the trunk forms beautiful, golden-brown scales, but beware, the edges of these scales are razor sharp. The crown is often densely rounded as a result of the repeatedly forked branches, hence the species name “dichotoma”. The blue-green leaves are borne on terminal rosettes, but in juvenile plants the leaves are ranked in vertical rows. The bright yellow flowers are borne in winter. They have their first flowers when they are about 20 to 30 years old.

Photo via amusingplanet.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown plant can be quite beautiful. As with all succulents, it’s essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.

Aloe are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot plants in the spring that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to carefully divide the root ball. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.

It needs strong, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun, once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C), but will survive down to 40 °F (4.5 °C). Feed with a cactus fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe