Adenium sp. (Adenium)

Adenium sp. (Adenium) flower with pink petals and a yellow center inside a dark pot

Botanical name: Adenium sp.

Common names: Adenium, Desert Rose, Impala Lily

Family: Apocynaceae

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant form: Large bush or small tree; plant with caudex

Mature height: 10-20 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Moderate; tolerates dry conditions

Flower color: Pink; white and off-white; blue, lavender, purple; red, crimson, vinous; yellow, orange; unusual color

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Irritating or toxic: Toxic plant/plant part

Adenium sp., commonly known as Desert Rose, refers to a group of succulent shrubs and small trees in the Apocynaceae family native to arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Plants develop a swollen caudex and thickened stems that store water, supporting a compact to spreading crown typically 2 to 6 ft tall in cultivation. Leaves are simple and variable in size and shape, often clustered near the tips of branches. Flowers are showy and funnel-shaped, appearing in a wide range of colors including pink, red, white, and bi-color forms, often with contrasting throats.

This group prefers full sun, excellent drainage, and a fast-draining, mineral-based soil. Water moderately during active growth, allowing the soil to dry between applications, and reduce watering during dormancy. Growth rate is moderate in warm conditions. Cold tolerance is limited, with damage likely below 40F; best suited to USDA Zones 10 to 11. Adenium species are well suited to container growing, where drainage and winter protection can be carefully controlled.See other exotic species of Adenium, photo gallery of exotic varieties and Thai Adeniums - milti-colored, multi-grafted.

See article about Adenium.