Desert-Rose

(Adenium obesum)

Desert-Rose (Adenium obesum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Adenium obesum, commonly known as Desert-Rose, is an evergreen or drought-deciduous succulent shrub. It is native to arid and semi-arid regions, including savannahs and sub-desert plains, as well as rocky landscapes in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the island of Socotra. This plant is well-adapted to hot, sunny, and dry conditions, often found in open areas where it receives ample sunlight. Desert-Rose can reach 1–3 m (3.3–9.8 ft) in height and is characterized by its pachycaul stems and a stout, swollen basal caudex, which serves as a water storage organ. The showy flowers are tubular, 2–5 cm (0.79–1.97 in) long, with the outer portion 4–6 cm (1.6–2.4 in) in diameter and five petals. The blooms are typically red and pink, often with a whitish blush outward of the throat, and are quite showy, making the plant a favored ornamental. In regions with year-round warm weather, Desert-Rose can bloom continuously.

Desert-Rose is valued for its striking appearance, particularly the caudex and vibrant flowers. It is commonly used as a houseplant, in xeriscaping, and as a bonsai in temperate regions, where it adds an exotic touch to indoor and outdoor collections. It requires a sunny location and should be protected from temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F) in winter. The plant thrives with a xeric watering regime, similar to that required by cacti, and prefers well-draining soil. A. obesum is typically propagated by seed or stem cuttings. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may attract pests such as aphids and mealybugs.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-9 feet
  • Width: 3-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions, including savannahs, sub-desert plains, and rocky landscapes in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Socotra

Other Names

Common Names: Impala-Lily, Sabi Star, Kudu, Mock Azalea, Impala Lily, Mock Azalea, Gewöhnliche Wüstenrose, Faux Baobab, Lis Des Impalas, Pied D’Éléphant

Scientific Names: , Adenium obesum, Adenium honghel, Adenium lugardae, Adenium lugardii,

GBIF Accepted Name: Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem. & Schult.