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Adenium obesum
Adenium obesum
Adenium obesum
Adenium obesum

Adenium obesum

TAXONOMY

FamilyApocynaceae
GenusAdenium
Zone10

ABOUT

Adenium obesum, commonly known as the Desert Rose, is a semisucculent shrub native to the Sahel regions, south of the Sahara, and tropical and subtropical eastern and southern Africa and Arabia. It is known for its striking flowers and thick, swollen stem. The plant undergoes a dormancy period during the cooler months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Cameraria Obesa
Desert Rose
Desert-Rose
Impala-Lily
Adenium arabicum
Adenium arboreum
Adenium coetaneum
Adenium honghel
Adenium micranthum
Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum
Adenium obesum subsp. somalense
Adenium socotranum
Adenium somalense
Adenium somalense var. caudatipetalum
Adenium somalense var. crispum
Adenium speciosum
Adenium tricholepis
Nerium obesum

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Adenium obesum thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be protected from frost.
Soil
The Desert Rose prefers well-draining sandy soil. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support healthy growth.
Repotting
Repot Adenium obesum every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with drainage holes. Repot during the growing season for best results.
Propagation
Propagate the Desert Rose through seeds or cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season and allowed to dry before planting in well-draining soil.
Pruning
Prune Adenium obesum to maintain its shape and encourage branching. Pruning is best done during the growing season. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Toxicity
Adenium obesum is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms.
Additional
Ensure the plant is placed in a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. During dormancy, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cooler location.
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