Adenium obesum, the Desert Rose is a perennial found in semi-arid regions of the Arabian Peninsula and Est to Southwest Africa.
It is a multi-trunked shrub or small tree growing about half as wide as it does high. It will grow from 5 to 8 feet in the wild. The trunk form, foliage, and flowers are all very attractive. Each desert rose creates its own sculptural design. The base is large (obesum) and in various shapes.
The shiny long green leaves are attractive. Leaves normally fall in Winter. Adenium Obesum produces exotic 2 " pink and white, open-trumpet shaped flowers throughout the year in full sun. The Desert Rose produce a massive stem when growing older, but will start blooming when quite young, at only 6 inches tall. It makes a nice Bonsai.
Do pruning after the plant's rest period. Heavy pruning should be kept to a minimum. New shoots can be pruned regularly. The sap is poisonous, so clean hands after pruning.
Hardiness zones 9 -11, (4°C/40°F,-5°C/25°F) in Winter. Extended periods below 40°F (4°C) might kill some of the branch tips. In Summer, if possible, move outdoors to a sunny or partly shaded location. Needs lots of light and fresh air. Keep in a bright location in Winter. Idealy, growing temperature should not be below 54°F. However, in the Winter, keeping it cool, between 54-61°F. Give the plant a needed rest.
Use a mix of 2 parts peat moss, and one part sand, slightly alkaline soil. Fertilize monthly during Spring and Summer. Water when growing, keep on the dry side in Winter. The tree needs perfect drainage. It will lose leaves if overwatered..
These are my Desert Rose the Pink and White is a Florida rescue plant after the hurricanes a couple of years ago. Look for Desert Roses like this one for sale at the end of August or September. These make a great house plant and do well in pots and Bonsai pots too.
