Desert rose (Adenium obesum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Desert rose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Desert rose
Adenium obesum, also known as Desert Rose, is a slow-growing succulent shrub native to Africa and Arabia. It is characterized by its swollen caudex and vibrant, tubular flowers ranging from pink to red, making it a spectacular specimen for sunny patios or as an indoor plant in colder climates.
Native range
Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in arid and semi-arid regions from the Sahel to South Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
Care tips
It requires full, direct sun for optimal flowering. Watering should be moderate during growth, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and very scarce or none in winter. Use a very well-draining substrate, ideally a cactus and succulent mix. Avoid overwatering at all costs, as it is the most common cause of caudex rot.
How to save a dying Desert rose
- Warning signs
- Soft/wrinkled caudex (rot), yellow/dropping leaves (over/underwatering), black spots (fungus).
- First aid
- Remove plant, inspect roots. Cut soft/black parts with sterile knife. Let dry for 2-3 days.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter or with poor drainage, rapidly rots the caudex.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot isn't too advanced and caudex has firm parts. Act quickly.