Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
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Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
A true showstopper, the Desert Rose features a thick, sculptural trunk known as a caudex and bursts into bloom with stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of pink, red, and white. Its bonsai-like form and tropical flair make it a favorite among collectors and design lovers alike.
Native to the arid landscapes of Africa and the Middle East, this drought-tolerant beauty thrives in dry conditions. It stores water in its bulbous trunk, making it perfect for succulent gardens and xeriscaping. Glossy, leathery leaves cluster at the tips of branches, adding to its striking silhouette.
In various cultures, the Desert Rose symbolizes strength, resilience, and the ability to flourish under harsh conditions. It’s also linked to spiritual grounding and mental clarity—earning it the nickname “stone of the mind,” a nod to its namesake desert rose crystals.
Care Tips:
🌞 Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
🌵 Plant in well-draining cactus or succulent soil
💧 Water only when soil is completely dry; reduce watering in winter
Perfect for indoor sunrooms, patios, or sunny windowsills, the Desert Rose is a living sculpture that brings both bold color and serene energy to any space.
- Botanical Name
- Adenium obesum
- Common Names
- Desert Rose, Mock Azalea, Sabi Star
- Plant Type
- Succulent Shrub
- Mature Size
- 3 to 9 feet tall, 1 to 3 feet wide
- Sun Exposure
- Full sun
- Soil Type
- Well-draining sandy or cactus soil
- Watering
- Water thoroughly when soil is dry; reduce watering in winter
- Humidity
- Low humidity; prefers dry conditions
- Bloom Time
- Spring through fall
- Flower Color
- Pink, red, white, or bi-colored
- Hardiness Zones
- Zone 10-11; must be protected from frost
- Native Area
- East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula
- Toxicity
- Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
Plants ship from our location in Florida and arrive nationwide within 5-8 business days. All our plants ship exclusively with UPS to ensure they arrive timely and in good condition. For those users in Florida, George, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, shipping may be faster. Estimated shipping dates can be seen in checkout. Plant exclusions may apply.
We monitior the weather in each destination location to maximize the shipping time and utilize thermal protection to ensure that the plant is protected. You can add a heatpack or thermal bag to your order if temperatures at night fall below 40 degrees.
You can visit our shipping policy to learn more.