Adenium obesum, commonly known as the Desert Rose, is a captivating succulent shrub or small tree admired for its swollen, sculptural trunk (caudex), glossy green leaves, and vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that resemble those of a rose. Native to arid regions, this unique plant brings a touch of exotic beauty to collections and landscapes in warmer climates.
 
Key Features of Adenium Desert Rose
Swollen Trunk (Caudex): The most distinctive feature is its enlarged basal trunk or caudex, which stores water and gives the plant a unique, bonsai-like appearance. The shape and size of the caudex can vary greatly.
Glossy Green Leaves: During the growing season, it produces attractive, oval to lance-shaped, glossy green leaves that are typically deciduous.
Vibrant Flowers: Produces showy, trumpet-shaped flowers in a range of colors including pink, red, white, and bi-colors, often with a lighter throat. Blooming can occur multiple times throughout the year under favorable conditions.
Succulent Nature: The swollen caudex and fleshy stems allow it to tolerate dry conditions.
Relatively Slow Growth: It is generally a slow-growing plant, especially the development of a large caudex.
 
Care for Your Adenium Desert Rose
Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. Provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sun daily.
Soil: Needs a very well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A mix designed for cacti and succulents with added perlite or sand is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly during the active growing season when the soil is dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly or withhold water entirely during the dormant winter period when leaves are shed.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to frost. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Tolerates low to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is important.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Plant
Pruning: Pruning can be done to shape the plant, encourage branching, or remove dead or leggy growth. It is best done during the active growing season.
Repotting: Repot infrequently, only when the plant has significantly outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger with excellent drainage. Spring is usually the best time for repotting. Be careful not to damage the caudex and roots during repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize during the active growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks to encourage growth and flowering.
 
Propagation Methods for Adenium Desert Rose
Seeds: Propagation is commonly done through seeds, which should be sown in warm, well-draining soil. Seedlings can develop a caudex relatively quickly.
Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings can be rooted, but plants grown from cuttings may not develop as impressive a caudex as those grown from seed. Allow cuttings to callus for several days before planting in well-draining soil.
Grafting: Grafting is often used to propagate desirable flower varieties onto more vigorous rootstock.
 
Adenium obesum, the Desert Rose, is a captivating and rewarding plant to grow, offering unique sculptural beauty with its swollen caudex and vibrant floral displays. Its need for bright light, well-draining soil, and careful watering will be rewarded with a truly exotic and eye-catching specimen.
 
 
* 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.
 
*** Due to this species being grown from seed specific varieties cannot be accurately identified and named. An assortment of varieties are available and will be sent at random.