Basic Care Tips for Gorgeous Desert Rose Plant
Desert rose (Adenium Obesum) is an ornamental plant species that fully justifies its name due to its beautiful flower.
The evergreen plant that fascinates with succulent fleshy stems bonsai-like shape originates from the desert regions of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and South America.
Besides its unusual tree form, the additional bonus is its trumpeting oleander-like flowers, which come in various colors, including white, pink, and red.
It is a slow-growing species, and with proper care, adequate watering, and nutrition, you can successfully grow it in your home, whether you are an experienced grower or an enthusiastic beginner.
Soil Requirements
As implied by its name, the plant prefers conditions similar to a desert and thrives in well-drained sandy soil. You can use a ready-made potting mix for cacti or make your blend by mixing equal parts of standard potting substrate, perlite, and sand.
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Watering Regime
Desert rose has a distinctive watering regime that fluctuates throughout the year. During its growing seasons (spring and summer), it is essential to keep its soil moist and not drenched as it might cause root rot.
Like any other succulents, it prefers to dry out between watering, meaning you could water it, in general, every ten days.
This ravishing plant enters its dormant phase in fall and winter, indicating it needs less water since its functions have been reduced to a minimum. During these periods, you should water it approximately once a month.
Light Requirements
It is easy to guess that Adenium Obesum thrives in a full-sun environment taking into account the place of its origin. In other words, it is an ideal plant for south-facing windows or other well-lit spots. Although desert rose can thrive even in a reduced-light environment, it produces fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements For Desert Rose Plant
Desert rose prefers a warmer climate, ideally between 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Like other tropical plants, it is very susceptible to temperatures lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which can quickly kill your rose.
Depending on the area you live in, you can take it outside during the summer months, but do not forget to return to its indoor environment as soon as the nights become colder.
Fertilizer
Desert Rose can benefit severely from additional nutrients, encouraging its growing process and flowering. These plants respond very well to balanced fertilizer (NPK 13:13:13) during their growing seasons. And, of course, skip on fertilizer during its resting phase!
Repotting
Many plant lovers are often in doubt about when to replant their Desert Rose. The first sign that your desert beauty needs a new home is the parts of roots coming out of the drainage holes of its container.
Approximately you could repot it every year or two, but it always depends on the size of the plant and the pot. Do not be discouraged if the plant’s growth stagnates after the process-it is usual since it is stressful for the plant!
And just a little note: Desert rose is a poisonous plant! Therefore use gloves when handling it!
FAQ
Is Desert Rose Poisonous To Touch?
Yes, its sap is poisonous and can cause skin irritation. This plant should be planted away from walkways and should not be touched. Children and pets should not be allowed to play around or touch this plant.
Is Desert Rose An Indoor Plant?
If you are looking for a plant that can withstand indoor lighting, then you might want to consider the Desert Rose. It is easily found in your local stores but it is also easy to grow. So, this succulent is perfect as an indoor plant as long as it receives enough light.
How Do You Take Care Of A Desert Rose Plant?
Desert Roses need bright light, but not direct sun. You may also put your desert rose plant in partial sun. Be sure that the plant is not in a draft. Water desert rose plants when the soil is dry to the touch. You may water the plant in a container or water into the soil around the plant. Do not overwater because overwatering can kill your desert rose plant. Also, the roots are very sensitive to chemicals, so distilled water is recommended.
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