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Adenium (Desert Rose)
BeginnerAdenium obesum
The 'Desert Rose' from Africa and Arabia. Plump caudex with showy pink/red flowers. Ideal caudex starter — develops thick caudex relatively quickly from seed. Extensive Thai breeding programs.
About
Adenium, popularly known as the Desert Rose, is a caudex-forming member of the family Apocynaceae native to the arid regions of eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula; the best-known species is Adenium obesum. It stores water in a swollen, bottle-shaped caudex at the base of the trunk to endure long dry seasons, and during the growing season it produces showy funnel-shaped flowers in pink, red, or white. The glossy oval leaves cluster at branch tips and are shed during dormancy. Because the caudex thickens relatively quickly even from seed, Adenium is one of the most popular entry-level caudex plants, and extensive cultivar breeding is carried out especially in Thailand. It thrives in full sun and requires a very free-draining mix of materials such as akadama and pumice. Water generously when the soil dries during growth, then reduce watering or withhold it entirely during the leafless dormant period. Cold tolerance is low, so it should be kept in a bright frost-free room in winter. The sap is toxic and should be handled with care.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
East Africa and Arabian Peninsula
Lifespan
Several decades or more
Size
20-100cm (total height)
Temperature
10〜40℃（適温25〜35℃）
Watering & Fertilizer
Water: when dry in growth season / withhold after leaf drop
Growing Tips
Soil
Fast-draining mix. Akadama, perlite, pumice
Light
Direct sun ideal. More light means more flowers
Flowering
Blooms continuously spring-fall. Many cultivars including doubles
Notes
All parts are highly toxic. Wash hands after contact. Keep from pets
Adenium (Desert Rose) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Adenium (Desert Rose)?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Adenium (Desert Rose)?
The ideal temperature for Adenium (Desert Rose) is 10〜40℃（適温25〜35℃）. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Adenium (Desert Rose)?
The average lifespan of Adenium (Desert Rose) is Several decades or more. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Adenium (Desert Rose) get?
The mature size of Adenium (Desert Rose) is 20-100cm (total height). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Adenium (Desert Rose)?
Adenium (Desert Rose): watering & fertilizer — Water: when dry in growth season / withhold after leaf drop. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Adenium (Desert Rose)?
The price of Adenium (Desert Rose) varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 11–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Adenium obesum
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem. & Schult.
Synonyms: Adenium somalense var. caudatipetalum Chiov., Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum (Vierh.) Lavranos, Adenium micranthum Stapf, Adenium tricholepis Chiov., Adenium honghel Lindl., Adenium arabicum Balf.f., Adenium arboreum Ehrenb., Cameraria obesa (Forssk.) Spreng., Nerium obesum Forssk., Adenium speciosum Fenzl, Adenium coetaneum Stapf, Adenium somalense var. crispum Chiov., Adenium somalense Balf.f., Adenium socotranum Vierh., Adenium obesum subsp. somalense (Balf.f.) G.D.Rowley
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
CITES 附属書 I/II いずれにも非掲載。日本の特定外来生物・特定動物にも非該当（植物）。
Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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