Adenium

Adenium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae, native to arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant, often referred to as the desert rose, though it is not a true rose. The genus includes several species and numerous cultivars, with Adenium obesum the most widely cultivated.

Adenium plants are succulent shrubs or small trees characterized by a swollen, bottle-shaped trunk called a caudex. They have opposite, glossy evergreen leaves and produce showy, funnel-shaped flowers in clusters at the ends of branches. Flowers are five-lobed and come in colors ranging from white and pink to red and bi-color, often with striking contrast patterns. The plant is valued for its sculptural form and long flowering season.

In their native habitats, Adenium species grow in dry, sunny environments with well-draining soil. They tolerate drought well and require bright light when cultivated. In temperate regions they are typically grown in containers and moved indoors or sheltered during winter.

Cultivation and care emphasize a mineral-rich, well-draining medium, and careful watering. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Provide full sun or very bright light, and maintain warm temperatures, avoiding frost. Propagation is commonly by seeds or cuttings; some forms are produced through grafting or selective hybridization.

All parts of Adenium contain cardiac glycosides and can be toxic if ingested; handling the plant’s latex should be done with gloves to avoid skin irritation. Adenium remains a popular choice for container culture and use in bonsai.