Adenium, also known as the Desert Rose, is perfect for a variety of climates, thriving in the warmth and sunlight. With its stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers and water-wise nature, the Adenium is a fantastic addition to any garden. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning, the Desert Rose is a captivating choice for any green space.
Planting Calendar
The best time to plant Desert Rose is in the warmer months of the year
Prepare
Native to Africa, the Middle East and Madagascar the Desert Rose is a special species. Flowers are either single or double and are produced in the summer months, bursting out in clusters of pink, rose, red or bi-coloured versions. During the cold months of the year it will drop all its leaves and flowers.
Position
Desert Rose loves sun, the hotter the better.
Soil
Plant your Desert Rose in a very free draining soil such as Cacti and Succulent Mix.
Plant
Desert roses do best when grown in pots in our climate, terracotta pots work best as they are porous. Repot your plant once every couple of years as they can tolerate crowded roots. When repotting only replant into a pot one size larger as too much soil can cause root rot. When planting make sure that the Caudex (trunk) sits just above soil level, never bury it into the soil.
Care
Beginner Tip
If your plant was recently repotted, it might be putting its energy into developing new roots instead of flowers. Give it time to adjust to its new growing environment.
Expert Tip
Desert roses can be propagated from both seeds and cuttings. The main advantage of using seeds is the stronger development of the caudex. (trunk).
Tip
Take care when handling Desert rose as the sap is poisonous to humans and animals, and can cause skin irritations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Adenium plant?
An Adenium, also known as the Desert Rose, is a succulent plant with a thick, swollen stem and beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers. It's popular for its striking appearance and relatively low maintenance.
How often should I water my Adenium?
Keep it minimal, the caudex (trunk) is designed to store water for long periods of drought. Overwatering will quickly kill a desert rose. In winter place, your plant in a warm spot out of cold winds and rain.
Can I prune my Adenium?
Prune your desert rose to shape. Each cut will sprout back with multiple new shoots from the sides. Each new sprouted shoot has the ability to flower. The more shoots the more flowers. Desert Roses can be grown as a Bonsai as well.
How do I propagate Adenium?
Adenium can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept warm and moist until they germinate. Cuttings can be taken from healthy branches, allowed to dry for a few days, then planted in a sandy soil mix.
Is Adenium toxic to pets?
Adenium is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of curious pets to prevent any potential harm.