Contents
Description
Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum is a succulent plant native to East Africa and Arabia. It is commonly known as the Desert Rose due to its stunning rose-like flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a thick, swollen trunk that stores water.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Adenium |
Appearance
The Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum has thick, fleshy, and glossy leaves that grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The leaves are oval-shaped and can be up to 6 inches long. The plant produces beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that are about 2 inches in diameter. The flowers come in various shades of pink, red, and white, with distinct stripes or patterns on the petals. The plant’s trunk is thick and swollen, giving it a unique and striking appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but is only hardy in USDA zones 10-12. It can be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Common Pests and Diseases
Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can prevent these problems.
Habitat
Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum is native to East Africa and Arabia, where it grows in dry, rocky, and sandy habitats. It can tolerate drought and high temperatures and is well adapted to arid conditions.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Q: How often should Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum be fertilized?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs are common pests that affect this plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum?
A: A mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for this plant.
Related Plants
- Adenium Obesum
- Adenium Somalense
- Adenium Arabicum
- Adenium Boehmianum
References
- “Adenium Obesum Subsp. Multiflorum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/adeniumobesumsubspmultifl.htm.
- “Desert Rose Care.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/desert-rose/desert-rose-care.htm.
- “Adenium Obesum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp005.
