Desert rose (Adenium obesum) is the largest group of plants that can be found in our Nursery. It is a succulent and a member of the Dogbane (Apocynaceae) family. This family which also includes oleander and plumeria. The plant is native to the sub-Saharan regions of Africa, but grows extremely well in the Southwest Florida.
Caring for Desert Roses
There are many websites that discuss how to take care of Desert roses. This section will give you information on what works best for us.
- Where to keep them
- We have had the best luck in plastic or terracotta pots. Do Not Use Metal, they tend to heat the roots. The planter MUST have drainage, holes in the bottom of the pot to let the water escape. We also like the elevate them with small bricks or plant stand. Do not block the holes.
- They can be planted in the ground, but the do not like to sit in water, they need to be planted in an area with very good drainage.
- They love full sun, but can be kept in a Lanai, in the sun, that has defused sunlight.
- Watering
- The are succulents, which stores water in the stems. They do well in the summer when there is a lot of rain. In the winter, we water them when the soil looks dry.
- Repotting
- Check your plant bottoms occasionally to see if the roots are of the pant our escaping through the drainage holes. It is time to repot the plant.
- Get a new pot that is a little large that the current one.
- Add or replace the existing soil. If you want to have a Chubby Bottom Plant. Raise the root about a 1/4 to 1/2 an inch above the dirt
- Check your plant bottoms occasionally to see if the roots are of the pant our escaping through the drainage holes. It is time to repot the plant.
- Soil and Fertilization
- We create our own soil mix:
- 50% Cactus Soil
- 50% #3 Perlite
- Or just use Cactus Soil
- We have had good success with Dynamite (13-13-13) Flower & Vegetable Food.
- We create our own soil mix:
Lifecyle
Desert Roses tend to go through a growth cycle. When they bloom they can be very beautiful. Don’t Be Alarmed if the flowers and leaves all drop off. This is normal for the plant. Below, you see one of our oldest Desert Roses, in full bloom (September). Next to it, is the same plant with the leaves falling off and new buds coming (November).
If you have question you can always contact us at info@chubbybottomplants.com
Photo Collection
