🌸 This remarkable caudiciform Morning Glory -Ipomoea platensis- is growing from a large caudex! The caudex can be of some weird shapes and forms. Similar to Desert roses (Adeniums), it grows caudex for water storage to survive extended drought periods. This is one of our favorite plants, easy to grow, makes a great conversation piece. It is a perfect for bonsai
📚Learn more from previous post: A beauty from Argentina
Most people picture cactus as desert plants: hot sun, sharp spines, dry
sand. But that’s only half the story. There’s another branch of
the family that lives in the shade of rainforests. These are the jungle
cacti
— epiphyte plants that climb trees, trail from branches, and throw out
flowers so big and showy they look closer to orchids than to cactus
blooms.
See one up close and it’s a surprise. The stems can be flat,
zig-zagged, or even curly. Some trail like ferns, others pile into a shaggy
basket. And when the flowers open — often at night —
they’re
wide, fragrant, and gone by morning. It’s no wonder gardeners like
them
from a first sight.
✔️
Jungle Cactus Q&A
Aren’t all cacti desert plants?
Not these. Jungle cacti are epiphytes and grow in rainforests, clinging
to trees and catching rain. They never touch desert sand.
What kind of light do they need?
Outdoors, filtered sun under a tree works best. Indoors, give them
bright but indirect light — east or north windows are usually safe.
Direct
summer sun can scorch the stems, whether inside or out.
How much water is safe?
They take more water than desert cactus but still hate wet feet.
Outdoors, a rain shower is fine if the pot drains fast. Indoors, water when
the top
inch of soil feels dry. Always use a loose mix like Adenium
mix so roots get some air.
Do they bloom indoors?
Yes. In fact, many bloom better inside where conditions are steady. They
set buds when a little root-bound, and cooler nights help. Outdoors in
frost-free zones, flowers come with seasonal shifts. Indoors, expect
surprise buds
after a cool spell by the window.
Best way to display them?
Hanging baskets show off trailing stems both inside and out. Shallow
pots work well on shelves or ledges indoors. In warm climates, they can even
be
tied to a tree branch outside — exactly how they grow in the wild.
Extra note on indoor vs. outdoor care?
Indoors, watch for dry heated air in winter — they like a bit of
humidity. A tray of pebbles and water under the pot helps. Outdoors, protect
from heavy midday sun and bring them in if nights dip below the mid 30s
F.
Jungle cacti are easy to keep and full of surprises. Whether trailing
from a basket or blooming after dark, they prove that not every cactus
belongs
in the desert.
A: Gardening is not only a fun way to spend time
but also an opportunity to bond with family and friends. Get everyone
involved in planting flowers, starting a vegetable patch, or even organizing a
whimsical Easter egg hunt amidst the blooming garden.
The joy of gardening offers mood-boosting benefits, leaving you feeling
invigorated and cheerful during the festive holiday. Plus, the sense of
accomplishment when your garden begins to flourish perfectly aligns with Easter's
spirit of personal growth and transformation.
Head out to your garden with a spring in your step and a smile on your
face. Revel in the beauty of nature, spend time with loved ones, and watch as
your garden transforms into a lively, colorful haven.
New
article by Jane Jordan.
"...The famous quote is often used to imply that the names
of things do not affect what they really are, in the case
of The Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) it is not a rose at
all, rather a succulent that thrives in hot, dry and sunny
conditions. These spectacular plants have no relation to
the rose family, they are a species of flowering plant
from the dogbane family, Apocynaceae. The naming of this
plant is partly correct as they originate in sub-Saharan
Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where they can grow into
large trees with huge swollen trunks..." Continue reading...
Date: 19 Apr 2024
How to grow Desert Roses (Adeniums)
Desert Roses (Adeniums)
Desert Roses (Adeniums)
Desert Roses (Adeniums) indoors and soil mix
🌸 How to grow Desert Roses (Adeniums)
Adeniums, also known as Desert Roses, are exotic and striking plants with curious caudex and bright flowers. They can bring beauty to any indoor or outdoor garden. Despite their desert origins, they require a bit of care to thrive. Here's a simple guide to help you grow healthy and vibrant adeniums:
