The Aloe ramosissima, now also known as Aloidendron ramosissimum, is a remarkable and distinctive succulent often called the Maiden's Quiver Tree. It stands out as the most profusely branched of all aloe species, typically forming a dense, spherical shrub up to 1.2-1.8 meters tall and wide, though it has a single, short trunk at the base. Its smooth stems are covered in a striking waxy powder that ranges in color from silver to pinkish-brown, acting as a natural sunscreen. At the tips of its numerous branches are small rosettes of fleshy, elongated, and narrowly triangular leaves, usually green to yellowish-green and sometimes tinged with pink, with small brownish teeth along the margins. In winter, it produces bright yellow, tubular flowers arranged on branched stalks (racemes) up to 20 cm long. This slow-growing species is native to the arid, rocky regions of the Richtersveld in Southern Africa and southern Namibia.
 
Caring for Aloidendron ramosissimum
Light: This aloe thrives in full sun and needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its compact growth and vibrant stem color. It can tolerate partial shade, but this may lead to less intense coloration and potentially leggier growth. If moving a plant from shade to full sun, do so gradually to avoid sunburn.
Watering: Aloidendron ramosissimum is very drought-tolerant and highly susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
During the active growing season (winter in its native habitat, and typically spring/summer in cultivation in the Northern Hemisphere), water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. You might water once every 2-4 weeks, depending on your climate, pot size, and soil.
During the dormant season (summer in its native habitat, and typically fall/winter in cultivation), reduce watering significantly, or even suspend it almost entirely, especially if kept indoors. The plant needs this dry period.
Pay attention not to wet the leaves when watering, as they can be prone to rotting if moisture sits on them, especially in humid conditions.
Soil: It requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A gritty mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents is ideal. You can also create your own by mixing regular potting soil with a significant amount of perlite, pumice, or coarse sand (aim for a ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 grit to soil). Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures and is best kept between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F) during its active growing season. It can tolerate cooler temperatures down to around 0°C (32°F) for short periods if kept dry, but it's best to protect it from frost to prevent damage. It thrives in hot summers as long as it's not overwatered.
Humidity: It adapts well to low to moderate humidity levels typical of indoor environments. High humidity is not necessary and can increase the risk of rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing: This aloe is not a heavy feeder. Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring/summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents, perhaps once every 1-2 months. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Potting: Repotting is only necessary when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excessive soil that can retain moisture. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
 
Propagation of Aloidendron ramosissimum is challenging through cuttings and is most reliably done by seed.
By Seed:
Seed Collection: Seeds mature around November in their native habitat and are best sown fresh for optimal germination rates.
Sowing: Use a well-draining substrate, such as a mix of coarse river sand and fine compost (2 parts sand to 1 part compost).
Sow the seeds lightly on the surface of the soil and cover them very lightly with sand.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Seeds germinate relatively quickly under favorable conditions (warmth and adequate light).
Be careful not to overwater seedlings, and consider using a fungicide to prevent damping-off.
By Cuttings:
While possible, propagation by stem cuttings is often unsuccessful with Aloidendron ramosissimum. The stems have a high fiber content and tend not to root easily.
If you wish to attempt propagation by cuttings:
Take cuttings from healthy branches.
Allow the cut ends to callous over for several days (a week or more) in a dry, shaded area. This helps prevent rot.
Plant the calloused cuttings in a very well-draining medium, such as pure perlite or a very sandy mix.
Keep the medium barely moist and provide bright, indirect light.
Rooting can be a very slow process and may not occur at all. Some suggest that cuttings may only start to root at the beginning of their active growth season (typically autumn/winter).
Success rates with cuttings are generally low, making seed propagation the preferred method.
 
In summary, Aloidendron ramosissimum is a slow-growing but rewarding succulent to cultivate. Providing it with plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and careful watering (especially avoiding overwatering) are key to its health. While propagation by cuttings is difficult, growing it from seed is a more reliable method for increasing your collection of this unique "Maiden's Quiver Tree."
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.