Adenium obesum, or desert rose, is a stunning succulent known for its vibrant blooms and distinctive bulbous trunk. This eye-catching plant thrives in warm, sunny environments and makes a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space.

So, Lykkers, if you’re looking to add this striking plant to your collection, here’s a concise guide on how to plant and care for Adenium obesum.

Choosing the Right Location

Adenium obesum thrives in warm, sunny environments. When planting your desert rose, choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. This will promote healthy growth and vibrant flowering. If you're planting indoors, place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure it gets adequate light. Avoid overly shaded areas, as this can hinder its growth and flowering potential.

Soil Requirements

Adenium obesum prefers well-draining soil that mimics its natural habitat. A mix of cactus soil, perlite, and coarse sand is ideal for providing excellent drainage. You can create your own blend by combining one part cactus mix with one part perlite and one part sand. This will ensure that excess water drains away quickly, preventing root rot — a common issue for this plant.

Planting Process

Pot Selection: Choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice, as they help regulate moisture levels.

Filling the Pot: Fill the pot with your well-draining soil mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top to prevent soil from spilling over during watering.

Positioning the Plant: Gently remove the Adenium from its nursery pot, taking care not to damage the roots. Place it in the new pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill in around the roots with additional soil, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets.

Watering: After planting, water the desert rose thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom. Allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering to prevent overwatering.

Care and Maintenance

Watering: During the growing season (spring and summer), water your Adenium regularly but allow the soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Fertilizing: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every four to six weeks during the growing season. This will encourage blooming and healthy growth.

Pruning: To maintain its shape and promote bushier growth, prune your Adenium after it has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged branches to encourage new growth.

Adenium obesum is a striking plant that adds beauty to any garden or indoor space. With proper care — adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular maintenance — your desert rose will thrive and reward you with stunning blooms for years to come. Happy planting!

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Video by Tyler Mossop