Adenium obesum is part of the Apocynaceae family and its native range is W. Tropical Africa to Arabian Peninsula and Tanzania where it grows as a semi succulent shrub primarily in the desert or dry shrubland biome. Leaves are leathery, fleshy and ovate with grey-green colour; Adenium can become deciduous during periods of drought or extreme cold. Flowers are borne in small clusters at the tips of stems, they are typically red or pink, remaining open for two or three days and have no obvious scent. Adenium are slow growing, they develop thick stems and a stout swollen caudex as they mature.
Genus name is the Latinised Arabic name aden used for Adenium obesum. Specific epithet is Latin for fat or obese, this is in reference to caudex of the plant.
Adenium produce a milky sap that can be irritating so wipe up any drops and wash your hands if you come into contact with it.
Light: Full sun, between 5-8 hours per day.
Water: Allow the potting mix to dry out completely in between waterings then water thoroughly. Keep almost completely dry in winter. It’s best to err on the side of underwatering with Adenium as they are super drought tolerant and will rot easily if overwatered.
Potting mix: A cactus potting mix containing extra drainage such as perlite, pumice or grit. Adenium are slow growing so don’t require repotting very often.
Fertilising: Adenium aren’t heavy feeders but fertilising can encourage blooming; opt for a balanced fertiliser diluted to half strength or a phosphorus rich feed for flowering. Omit fertilising in winter.
Temperature: 21-37˚C. No lower than 12˚C.
Humidity: Ambient home humidity is fine.
Adenium obesum are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.