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Adenia ballyi
AdvancedAdenia ballyi
A Somali Adenia whose large grey-green, dome-shaped caudex is topped by a tangle of strongly curved, spiny branches. Its tendrils have become thorns, and wild caudices can reach 1 m across like boulders.
About
Adenia ballyi is a caudiciform in the passion-flower family (Passifloraceae) from Somalia, at 250–1,600 m. It grows in open rocky ground among boulders in subdesert steppe, usually on limestone with frankincense trees (Boswellia), sometimes wedged into cracks in the rocks. It is a hairless shrub up to 2 m tall. The large above-ground caudex is grey-green, dome-shaped to nearly round, both woody and succulent, and reaches 1 m across in the wild. From it rise many stiff, grey-green branches with darker vertical stripes, strongly curved and tangled, armed with spines up to 4 cm long. The tendrils of most Adenia are transformed into thorns in this species, so it never climbs. The small grey-green three-lobed leaves fall early. The flowers are unisexual, with male and female flowers on the same plant. Although not closely related, it looks much like Adenia globosa: both resemble large boulders covered with tangled spiny branches. In Japan seed-grown plants are sold through online auctions. Adenia plants are reported to be highly toxic in all parts, so handle them with care.
Size of the Adenia ballyi
The Adenia ballyi grows to Up to 2 m tall; caudex up to 1 m across in the wild.
Basic Info
Origin
Somalia
Lifespan
Long-lived (little published data)
Size
Up to 2 m tall; caudex up to 1 m across in the wild
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeding in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It grows on sunny rocky ground; give it plenty of sun.
Watering
Water while it is in leaf, letting the mix dry between waterings.
Dormancy Care
Adenia rot easily if wet while leafless, so keep it dry when the leaves have fallen.
Temperature & Overwintering
Adenia are prone to rot in cold, wet conditions; overwinter it warm and on the dry side.
Soil & Repotting
It grows on limestone rock; use a very porous mix with plenty of pumice or similar grit.
Pests & Cautions
Adenia are reported to be highly toxic in all parts, and this species is also spiny: wear gloves when pruning or repotting and keep it away from children and pets.
Adenia ballyi FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Adenia ballyi?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Adenia ballyi get?
The mature size of Adenia ballyi is Up to 2 m tall; caudex up to 1 m across in the wild. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Adenia ballyi?
Adenia ballyi: watering & fertilizer — Light feeding in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Adenia ballyi?
The price of Adenia ballyi varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Adenia ballyi
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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