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Adenium Socotranum (Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum)

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Adenium Socotranum

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Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum

From Socotra Island, growing into massive bottle trees with trunks around 2.4 m in diameter in habitat.

Growing Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
12〜40℃
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
50-hundreds cm

Overview

Adenium socotranum is endemic to Socotra Island in the Arabian Sea and is the largest species in the genus. In its natural habitat, it reaches several meters in height with a trunk about 2.4 m in diameter at the base, forming a spectacular bottle tree with wide-spreading branches. The bark is smooth and grayish-white, concealing vast water reserves within. Observations of cultivated plants note that distinct vertical ridges on the stem are unique within the genus, and the leaves are about 12 cm long and broader toward the tip, with a conspicuous white midrib and pale veins. Flowers are among the largest in the genus; the original describer recorded them as bright pink and about twice the size of those of continental Adenium. Growth is exceptionally slow, requiring decades to develop into a large specimen. Socotra's climate alternates between humid and dry seasons. In cultivation, it needs full sun and warmth but is highly sensitive to cold and overwatering. Extremely porous soil, moderate watering during growth, and near-complete drought in winter are essential. Although not a CITES-listed species (no match in Species+), its natural habitat is limited to Socotra and few plants of the true species are reportedly in cultivation, so availability remains limited, and it is among the most coveted caudex plants.

Lifespan of the Adenium Socotranum

The Adenium Socotranum lives 50+ years.

Size of the Adenium Socotranum

The Adenium Socotranum grows to 50-hundreds cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Adenium Socotranum

The ideal temperature for the Adenium Socotranum is 12〜40℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Socotra Island, Yemen

Lifespan

50+ years

Size

50-hundreds cm

Temperature

12〜40℃

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

It prefers full sun and heat. In the growing season, place it in a sunny outdoor spot with good airflow to prevent stagnant humidity.

Watering

Water moderately in the growing season after the soil dries. It is very sensitive to wet soil, so wait until the pot is fully dry before watering again.

Temperature & Overwintering

It is very sensitive to winter cold and wet conditions. Bring it into a warm, dry, bright room for winter and shield it from cold snaps.

Soil & Repotting

An extremely fast-draining mix is the rule. Growth is very slow, so repotting only when root-bound, during the growing season, is enough.

Dormancy Care

Withhold water in winter as a rule. Matching its native climate of distinct wet and dry seasons, keep it completely dry during dormancy.

CaudexAdeniumSocotraGiant

Adenium Socotranum FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Adenium Socotranum?
A

Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Adenium Socotranum?
A

The ideal temperature for Adenium Socotranum is 12〜40℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Adenium Socotranum?
A

The average lifespan of Adenium Socotranum is 50+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Adenium Socotranum get?
A

The mature size of Adenium Socotranum is 50-hundreds cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Adenium Socotranum?
A

The price of Adenium Socotranum varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: October 2, 2026

Growing Specifications

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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum (Forssk.) Roem. & Schult.

Synonyms: Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum (Vierh.) Lavranos, Adenium socotranum Vierh., Adenium somalense var. caudatipetalum Chiov., 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 obesum subsp. somalense (Balf.f.) G.D.Rowley

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Not listed in either CITES Appendix I or II. Also not subject to Japan's designated invasive species or specified animals regulations (being a plant).

Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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