Adenium Succulent Care
Adenium Obesum – the desert rose plant is an indoor succulent with a wide variety of 2 – 3 inch flowers. Easy-to-grow and an excellent choice for the intrepid gardener, this Arabian native is wonderful in warm climates or interior container gardens.
Although the desert rose plant is a carefree succulent, it won’t bloom unless you mimic its native region’s conditions. A desert rose blooms well in hot weather, it needs a break in the growing season. Thus, the desert rose has two different blooming periods. In early spring, the flowers bloom steadily when getting sufficient sunlight. The second phase begins in the early fall months when the temperature drops from 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It is at the time when you need to move the plant indoors for pruning.
How to care for your Adenium Succulent
- LIGHT
Adenium Obseum thrives in bright sunlight and produces vibrant blooms. If you live in an area with sunny mornings and afternoons, this plant is an excellent choice. However, placing it in the shade can weaken its stems and cause legginess. Ideally, it prefers temperatures between 70°F and 100°F for optimal growth.
- WATER
Desert rose plants do not need a lot of water to thrive in their growing environment. They will need water more during the summer and spring; and less in the winter, but keep hydrated enough to retain its leaves.
- TEMPERATURE
The desert rose thrives in sunny outdoor conditions, preferring temperatures between 70°F and 100°F. It cannot survive cold, so move it indoors during chilly weather. Water every two to three weeks, especially in winter, only when the soil is dry. Keep temperatures above 60°F for vibrant blooms in spring.
- FOOD
Adenium obesum plants require lots of nitrogen in their soil, so it’s best to apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer directly to the soil before each blooming period.
- TOXICITY
The desert rose is highly toxic to dogs, cats, horses, and humans, so it’s best kept away from pets and children. With enough toxins to kill an elephant, the ASPCA recommends keeping the plant away from all animals since its toxins can be ingested by licking the plant
Common Issues for your Adenium Succulent
Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. To prevent this, ensure you allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Check the pot’s drainage holes to confirm that water is not accumulating at the bottom. If you notice yellow leaves, reduce your watering frequency to every two to three weeks, especially during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down. Additionally, consider repotting your Adenium in fresh, well-draining soil if root rot is suspected, as this can help revive the plant.
Drooping leaves can indicate a lack of water or insufficient light. If the soil feels dry, give your Adenium a thorough watering, ensuring that excess water can drain out. It’s important to find a balance; underwatering can lead to stress, while overwatering can cause root problems. Additionally, ensure your plant is positioned in a location where it receives at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight each day. If the light levels are low, consider moving the plant to a sunnier spot or using grow lights to provide the necessary brightness for healthy growth.