Quiver Tree

Plant Type: perennial, succulent tree
Plant Height: 15–30+ feet (in ideal conditions)
Spread: 8–15+ feet
Flower Color: bright yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Quiver Tree / Aloe dichotoma: Majestic Tree Aloe for Monumental Landscapes
Aloe dichotoma, commonly known as the Quiver Tree (now sometimes classified as Aloidendron dichotomum), is a striking, slow-growing succulent tree native to southern Africa. With its tall, branching form and architectural presence, it serves as a dramatic focal in arid and desert gardens. Its thick trunk, gray bark, and narrow upward-facing leaves give it a sculptural quality that becomes more dramatic with age.

Key Features of Quiver Tree
The Quiver Tree develops a stout, branching trunk and can eventually reach impressive heights, forming a signature inverted “Y” or candelabra shape. The leaves are rigid, narrow, and arranged in dense rosettes at branch ends, giving it a spiky crown look. In winter, tall inflorescences produce clusters of bright yellow tubular flowers, often before many other succulents bloom. As a tree aloe, it adds vertical interest and long-term stature to landscapes.

Growing and Care Tips
Quiver Tree prefers full sun and excellent drainage. It thrives on minimal water and is adapted to survive periods of drought. When young or newly planted, occasional deep watering helps establishment, but once mature, irrigation should be very conservative to prevent root or crown rot. Soil must be sandy, rocky, or gravelly with free drainage — heavy or poorly drained soils are the greatest risk. It tolerates mild frost but does best in warm, dry climates with good airflow. Be cautious when relocating or watering heavily, as older trunks are less forgiving of excess moisture.

Landscaping Uses
Because of its stature and architectural impact, Quiver Tree is best used as a specimen in large gardens, desert estates, or botanical collections. It commands presence in open landscapes, rock gardens, or as a backdrop to lower succulents. It pairs beautifully with boulders, gravel beds, and companion drought-tolerant plants, offering contrast in scale, texture, and form.

Summary
Quiver Tree (Aloe dichotoma / Aloidendron dichotomum) epitomizes the marriage of sculpture and resilience. Its stately form, drought adaptation, and seasonal yellow blooms make it a rare gem in desert and arid gardens. While slow-growing, over time it becomes a living monument that rewards patience and careful planting.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Quiver Tree Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade (minimum of 6 hours sun; light afternoon shade may help in extreme heat)
Soil: Very freely draining—sandy, rocky, or gravelly with minimal organic matter
Spacing: Leave plenty of room; 8–15+ feet apart is ideal to allow mature form
Planting Depth: Set the root crown at or just above soil level; avoid burying trunk base
Support: No staking necessary; trunk and branches are self-supporting

Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water deeply once to settle soil and remove air pockets. Allow soil to dry thoroughly before watering again. Over the initial 6–12 months, water sparingly—only when soil is fully dry.
When is the Plant Established? Quiver Tree is considered established after 12–24 months when a deep root system has formed and growth steadies.
Watering Once Established: Irrigation should be very minimal. In summer, water only in extended drought conditions (every few weeks, if at all). In cooler months, supplemental watering is often unnecessary.
Drip Irrigation Setup: Place emitters 12–24 inches from the trunk to avoid wetting the crown. Use low-flow emitters (0.5–1 gph), and ensure soil dries thoroughly between cycles. One emitter per plant is typically sufficient.
General Watering Tips: Always test soil moisture before irrigating—water only when several inches deep are thoroughly dry. Avoid standing moisture around the trunk or crown. Use coarse gravel or rock mulch to reduce evaporation, but keep it several inches away from the trunk base to promote airflow and prevent rot.