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Description
Adenium Obesum, commonly known as the Desert Rose, is a succulent shrub native to Africa and Arabia. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is known for its beautiful, showy flowers that bloom in a range of colors including pink, red, white, and yellow. The plant is popular among gardeners and collectors due to its attractive appearance and ease of maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Adenium |
Appearance
The Adenium Obesum is a slow-growing, deciduous shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height. Its stem and branches are thick and succulent, with a greyish-brown bark that peels off in thin flakes. The plant produces a rosette of fleshy, oval-shaped leaves that are bright green and glossy. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can be single or double, with a diameter of up to 3 inches. They have a delicate fragrance and bloom in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
Water: The Adenium Obesum is drought-tolerant and prefers to be kept on the drier side. Water the plant thoroughly when the soil is completely dry and avoid overwatering.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, once a month.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: The Desert Rose prefers full sun to partial shade and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Adenium Obesum is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Adenium Obesum is prone to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered, and can develop fungal diseases such as powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Habitat
The Adenium Obesum is native to the arid regions of Africa and Arabia, where it grows in rocky or sandy soils. It is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can survive long periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Adenium Obesum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives ample sunlight and is kept in a well-draining pot.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Desert Rose?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, from spring to fall.
Q: How do I propagate my Adenium Obesum?
A: The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or from seeds. Cuttings should be taken in spring or early summer and allowed to callus over before planting in well-draining soil. Seeds should be sown in sandy soil and kept warm and moist until they germinate.
Q: Why is my Desert Rose dropping its leaves?
A: Dropping leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering, as well as pests or diseases. Check the soil moisture and inspect the plant for signs of infestation or disease.
Related Plants
- Adenium Somalense
- Adenium Multiflorum
- Adenium Arabicum
References
- “Adenium Obesum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d267.
- “Desert Rose.” Better Homes & Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/desert-rose/.
- “Adenium Obesum: How to Grow and Care for Desert Rose.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/desert-rose/adenium-desert-rose.htm.
