The quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma) are a unique species of aloe that are protected by law. They thrive in the harsh, semi-desert conditions of South Africa and Namibia. The name “quiver tree” comes from the Khoisan people, who historically used the hollowed stems of these trees as quivers for their poisonous arrows.
This particular quiver tree forest is located near Nieuwoudtville in the Northern Cape, where the trees can live for up to 400 years. Unfortunately, this species is in decline across much of its range. Research on Aloe dichotoma has helped us better understand the requirements for protected areas, particularly in the context of climate change. The quiver tree is also surrounded by a long history of beliefs suggesting that nurturing and worshipping this tree will bring good luck.
I captured a long-exposure photograph of the ancient quiver tree giants at the Quiver Tree Forest near Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape, South Africa, late at night, with the stunning southern hemisphere sky and a shooting star in view.
