Question

This strange looking tree is an icon of Southern Africa's most arid habitats. It is a tall branching species of aloe also known as choje to the indigenous San people. Identify it.

Answer 1

Hint: An arid region is basically an area that is moisture deficient. These are areas where evaporation is more than precipitation. The conditions in these areas are such that it is difficult for vegetation to develop and only xeric or desertic fauna is found.

Complete answer:
Southern Africa is the region south of 150 degree south latitude and consists of several countries which have drylands and arid to semi arid climates. San people are inhabitants of these areas and are spread over the countries of South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
The tree shown in the picture is the Quiver tree. It is mostly found in the countries of Namibia and South Africa. It grows in well drained coarse mineral sand and requires little water and abundant sunshine. It grows up to 9m tall and produces yellow flowers in the summers. San people use its hollowed branches as quivers to hold their arrows. The roots are traditionally used to treat asthma and tuberculosis.

Note: Quiver is also known as kokerboom. The plant is protected under South African law which prohibits its removal or seed collection without permit. It is listed in the Vulnerable species list by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.