Adenium obesum, commonly known as Desert Rose, is a striking plant with a swollen fleshy stem, green leaves, and deep red flowers. The plant is deciduous in colder winters, but it can be kept in leaves provided sufficient warmth and light water. No part of these plants commands interest, from the dramatically swollen stems on older plants to the bright flowers to the tight clusters of narrow green leaves.
Beware, though, the Desert Rose sap is poisonous and should never come into contact with children or pets. If you get sap on yourself while handling the plant, wash your hands immediately.
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun. Perfect for a sunny window.
Water: Water Desert Rose during the summer and spring. Reduce water in the winter, but keep hydrated enough to retain its leaves.
Temperature: Keep at least 50 ºF (10 ºC) at all times. The plant may retain its leaves if you keep temperatures of 60 ºF (16 ºC) or higher during the winter.
Soil: Desert Rose grows well in a well-drained succulent mix, with an ideal pH of around 6.0 (slightly acidic).
Fertilizer: Fertilize during spring and summer with controlled-release or liquid fertilizer according to label directions.
Propagation
Typically by seed. If your plant develops a seed pod, plant the seeds as soon as possible after the pod ripens to maximize the chances of germination. Desert Rose can be propagated from branch cuttings, but this plant often fails to develop the characteristic (and highly desired) bulbous stem.
Repotting
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a Desert Rose, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove it from the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots and remove any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide and antibacterial solution. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Grower's Tips
Desert Rose is not difficult to grow well when it gets enough sunlight and warmth. However, like all succulents, it cannot tolerate sitting in water, and if you err, do it on the side of too little water. Use a specialized soil mix designed for cacti and succulents.
Source: about.com
Links
- Back to genus Adenium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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