desert rose
Adenium obesum
Overview
The desert rose is an amazing plant species that adds vibrant, flowering color to any space. This drought-tolerant succulent requires minimal water and a sunny, dry environment, making it ideal for most desert and dry climate gardens. Its showy blooms range in color from hot pink and vibrant red to stunning white and yellow shades. The striking ombre of the adenium obesum's swollen base and graceful, slender stems make it a true stunner. It's also highly toxin resistant and can handle a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions. No wonder it's quickly becoming one of the most popular flowers around!
Care Guide
Watering
As a general guideline, the Desert Rose should be watered about once a week, providing enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of about 8-10 inches. In the winter months or in cooler climates, water the plant less frequently, allowing the top 3-4 inches of soil to become dry before more water is added. For each watering, aim for at least a quart of water per plant. When watering, try to avoid getting the plant leaves wet, as this can encourage rot.
Light
Desert roses prefer lots of sunlight during their growing season. They thrive in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, with the best option being 8 to 10 hours of full sun. They should receive the most sunlight possible during the morning and late afternoon. Because they are adapted to hot, dry climates, desert roses can also be placed in direct sunlight in the middle of the day when the sun is strongest.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 11-12.
Pruning
To maintain a healthy shape and promote flowering, Desert Rose should be pruned lightly throughout the growing season. Pruning should focus on removing long shoots, crossing branches and weak growth. In late winter, each stem should be trimmed back by 1/3 to promote bushier growth. It's important to avoid pruning back too much at once, as Desert Rose can become overly stressed.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Seed Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Division
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow desert rose.
