Bastard quiver tree  (Aloe pillansii)

Little is known about the reproductive biology of the bastard quiver tree (6), but the species' flowers appear in early summer (around October) (2), and their structure suggests that they may be pollinated by sunbirds (6). If this is the case, then the bastard quiver tree is one of very few species in the area that is bird-pollinated and therefore plays a key role within the ecosystem (6).

These trees are a keystone species of this region; many animals rely on their existence for a variety of different reasons (6). It is one of very few high points in this desolate vegetation that can act as a vantage point for birds of prey and as nesting sites for other birds. The succulent nature of the leaves and flowers is also an important source of moisture for a range of different animals (6).

Due to the absence of growth rings in this monocot species, it is very difficult to tell how long trees live. It is suspected, however, that they grow very slowly and live between 250 and 350 years (7).