Adenium sp. 'Dark-colored Flower' (Black Desert Rose)

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.

These bizarre hybrids appeared on the market a few years ago. At first, pictures looked confusing and unreal. When our first Black adeniums went into bloom, we were disappointed with red buds popped up on the plants... However after the dark red flowers opened, they started to darken as they aged, and some varieties turned so dark in color that it was close to black or brown. Some varieties have only black contour around red flower. So, black flower is actually a very old flower! So be, patient and let it age as an old good vine. See picture of darkening process.

Adeniums have many spectacular hybrids. The basic culture is very similar to orchids. A small pot with excellent drainage is a must. Adeniums do not like both over-watering or drying-out. There is a little secret of how to create a weird shape of the base: lift the plant a bit every time you re-pot the plant, so that the upper part of roots will be a little exposed. The plant will form more roots that will go down. To make your plant develop a large swollen base/trunk, you'll need a good quality fertilizer. Fertilizer requirement for swelling up trunks is also used to increase flowering. It shouldn't be too high in nitrogen, the middle number should be the highest. Never apply fertilizer directly on roots and do not liquid feed when a plant is thirsty: always water first slightly to avoid root burn and leaf drop. Do not wet leaves. Adeniums need lots of light for heavy flowering. Most hybrids and species start blooming in the spring when the conditions are warm and days get longer, and continue blooming through the fall and winter in warmer climates. Adeniums like a neutral to hard water. Acidic water tends to sour the soil too fast and may cause root rot. Water plants preferably in the early morning, and allow them to drink up throughout the day. Watering can be done daily to every few days. Never allow your plants to sit in a saucer of water, but don't let them to dry out too often - this causes adeniums to go into early dormancy.