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Adenium obesum

Adenium obesum, commonly known as the desert rose, is a succulent shrub or small tree belonging to the Apocynaceae family, native to the arid and semi-arid regions of eastern and southern Africa as well as the Arabian Peninsula.^[1]^[2] It features a distinctive swollen caudex that stores water, thick gray-green branches, and leathery, ovate leaves clustered at the stem tips, typically measuring 5–13 cm in length.^[1] The plant produces showy, tubular flowers up to 5 cm across primarily in shades of pink and red with a pale throat, blooming mainly in summer and attracting pollinators like butterflies.^[1] All parts contain a milky sap rich in cardiac glycosides, rendering the plant highly toxic if ingested.^[1] Native to diverse habitats including dry savannas, rocky slopes, and sandy deserts from Senegal east to Sudan and south to South Africa, as well as Yemen and Oman, A. obesum thrives in well-drained, gravelly soils under full sun and extreme drought conditions.^[1]^[2] In its natural range, it grows as a perennial broadleaf evergreen, reaching heights of 1–5 meters with a spread of up to 1.5 meters, though it often appears more compact and twisted due to environmental stresses.^[1] The species exhibits deciduous tendencies in cooler or drier periods, shedding leaves to conserve resources, and its tuberous roots further enhance its adaptation to arid environments.^[2] Widely cultivated as an ornamental plant worldwide, Adenium obesum is prized for its bonsai-like form, vibrant blooms, and low-maintenance nature, particularly in USDA zones 10–12 or as a container plant brought indoors during winter in cooler climates.^[1] It requires sandy, well-drained soil, moderate watering with periods of dryness, and fertilization during the growing season to promote flowering, but overwatering can lead to root rot.^[1] Hybrids and cultivars have expanded its color palette to include white, yellow and multicolored varieties, enhancing its popularity in horticulture, though propagation is typically via seeds or cuttings due to its slow growth.^[1] Despite its appeal, caution is advised in households with pets or children because of its poisonous properties.^[1]

Botanical Description

Morphology

Adenium obesum is an evergreen or drought-deciduous succulent shrub or small tree that typically reaches heights of 1–5 m.^[1]^[3] It exhibits a pachycaul growth habit, characterized by thick, fleshy stems adapted for water storage in arid environments.^[3] The plant develops a distinctive swollen caudex, or bulbous base, which can attain diameters of up to 1 m and serves as a primary reservoir for water and nutrients.^[3] The stems are robust and branching, emerging from the caudex, with a gray-green to brown bark that is smooth and often twisted.^[1] They produce a milky sap containing cardiac glycosides, which are toxic compounds.^[4] Leaves are simple and spirally arranged, clustering at the tips of branchlets; they measure 3–15 cm in length and 0.2–8 cm in width, with an obovate to linear shape, leathery texture, and gray-green coloration.^[3]^[1] These leaves are thick and fleshy, pinnately veined, and tend to drop during extended dry periods.^[1] In cultivation, A. obesum displays a slow growth rate, potentially adding up to 30 cm per year in its initial stages under favorable conditions.^[5] Subspecies exhibit variations in size, such as A. obesum subsp. swazicum, which is limited to about 0.7 m in height.^[6]

Flowers and Reproduction

The flowers of Adenium obesum are bisexual and showy, featuring a funnel-shaped or tubular corolla measuring 2–5 cm in length that expands to 4–6 cm in diameter when fully open, with five spreading lobes. The corolla is typically pink to red, often with a whitish throat and rose-colored stripes on the inner surface that function as nectar guides to attract pollinators.^[3]^[7] These flowers are borne in terminal corymbose inflorescences, which are dense cymes with linear to narrowly oblong bracts 3–8 mm long.^[3] In cultivation under warm conditions, blooming can occur nearly year-round for periods of 2–4 months, though it ceases above 38°C; in native habitats, flowering is seasonal during the early dry period, often while the plant is leafless to maximize display.^[1] Reproduction in A. obesum occurs primarily through seeds produced following insect pollination. The species exhibits a pollination syndrome adapted for long-proboscid insects, with the flower's gynostegium structure—a cone formed by the five stamens—depositing pollen on the visitor's proboscis through slits while the style knob facilitates secondary transfer to the stigma.^[3] Nectar guides and the salverform shape further promote precise pollinator access. Some populations display self-incompatibility, where self-pollen fails to fertilize due to genetic barriers, necessitating cross-pollination; pollen viability remains above 69% for up to three days post-anthesis under optimal temperatures (≥25°C), with stigma receptivity peaking 72 hours after flower opening.^[8] Following successful pollination, paired linear-oblong follicles develop, each 11–22 cm long and gray to pale brown, maturing 2–3 months later and containing numerous seeds. These seeds are cylindrical with a brown integument and a pappus of golden-brown bristles at both ends, enabling wind dispersal (anemochory).^[3]

Taxonomy and Classification

Etymology and History

The genus name Adenium derives from the Arabic term "Oddaejn," referring to Aden in Yemen, the region where the type species was first collected.^[9] The specific epithet obesum originates from the Latin word for "obese" or "swollen," describing the plant's distinctive thickened caudex that stores water in arid environments.^[10] Adenium obesum was initially described as Nerium obesum by Peter Forsskål in 1775, based on specimens from the Arabian Peninsula in his Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica.^[11] In 1819, Johann Jacob Roemer and Josef August Schultes established the genus Adenium and transferred the species to it as the type, publishing the combination Adenium obesum in Systema Vegetabilium.^[12] Earlier classifications had placed it under Pachypodium as P. obesum, named by Alphonse de Candolle in 1844, reflecting similarities in their pachycaul habits.^[13] Modern phylogenetic revisions firmly position A. obesum within the Apocynaceae family, emphasizing its separation from Pachypodium based on floral and molecular traits.^[14] Notable synonyms include Nerium obesum Forssk., Pachypodium obesum A. DC., Adenium arabicum Balf. f., Adenium arboreum Ehrenb., and Adenium coetaneum Stapf., some of which represent regional variants now treated as synonyms.^[12] Phylogenetically, Adenium obesum resides in the tribe Nerieae of the subfamily Apocynoideae within Apocynaceae, closely allied with genera like Pachypodium and Nerium.^[15] Chloroplast genome sequencing and comparative analyses have confirmed the monophyly of Adenium, supporting its tribal placement and evolutionary divergence from other apocynoids through shared traits like pollinia absence and succulent adaptations.^[16]

Subspecies and Varieties

Adenium obesum is a taxonomically complex species within the genus Adenium, with infraspecific variation leading to the recognition of several subspecies or closely related species depending on the authority. According to a revision by Plaizier (1980), the genus comprises five species—A. obesum, A. boehmianum, A. oleifolium, A. socotranum, A. somalense, and A. swazicum—distinguished primarily by differences in growth habit, leaf morphology, and geographic distribution.^[17] However, contemporary classifications, such as those in Plants of the World Online (POWO), recognize six accepted species in the genus as of November 2025, with A. obesum encompassing some regional variants as synonyms under a broader species concept, while treating others as distinct species; no formal subspecies are recognized under A. obesum.^[12]^[18] The nominate form, A. obesum, is the most widespread, typically forming shrubs or small trees 1–3 m tall with a swollen caudex, obovate to elliptic leaves 5–15 cm long, and tubular pink to red flowers 4–6 cm across. It occurs across arid regions from West Africa to the Arabian Peninsula and includes synonyms such as A. arabicum, A. somalense, and A. socotranum.^[17] Adenium swazicum (often debated as a subspecies of A. obesum in older treatments) is a smaller shrub reaching only 0.7 m, characterized by narrow, linear leaves and pale pink flowers; it is endemic to the lowveld of South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique and assessed as Critically Endangered by IUCN due to habitat loss and collection pressures since 2008.^[19]^[20] Other notable taxa include Adenium socotranum (synonymized under A. obesum), a tree-like form up to 4.6 m tall endemic to Socotra, Yemen, featuring a prominent caudex, larger white to pink flowers, and elliptic leaves; it is assessed as Least Concern by IUCN due to its stable populations. Adenium oleifolium is a dwarf shrub no more than 0.4 m high with linear, olive-like leaves and a subterranean caudex, restricted to Namibia and adjacent areas.^[17] Adenium boehmianum, found in southern Angola to Namibia, is a separate species with similar succulent habits but distinct distribution. Adenium arabicum (syn. under A. obesum), found in Saudi Arabia and Yemen, exhibits variable flowering with deep red corollas and a more branched habit.^[21]^[22] Taxonomic debates persist regarding the rank of these variants, with some earlier works elevating them to species based on morphological discontinuities and limited gene flow (e.g., Plaizier 1980; Goyder 2001), while others, including IUCN assessments, recognize distinct species or subspecies for conservation purposes. A 2025 review highlights ongoing questions in nomenclature, particularly regarding variable populations like A. arabicum, without resolving the species boundaries.^[23] No new taxa have been described since A. dhofarense in 2015, and POWO maintains a split species concept amid these debates as of November 2025.^[12] In cultivation, numerous hybrids and cultivars have been developed, blending traits from these taxa for ornamental appeal, such as the double-flowered 'Arabian Nights' derived from A. obesum and putative A. arabicum influences; however, these are not taxonomically valid and lack wild counterparts.

Distribution and Habitat

Native Range

Adenium obesum is native to tropical and subtropical arid regions across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In Africa, its distribution spans the Sahel zone south of the Sahara, from Mauritania and Senegal eastward to Sudan, and extends into northeastern and eastern parts of the continent, including countries such as Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Somalia, Sudan-South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, and Uganda.^[12]^[24] Several subspecies exhibit more restricted ranges within this broader distribution. For instance, Adenium obesum subsp. swazicum (often treated as the distinct species A. swazicum) is confined to southern Mozambique, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), and adjacent areas in South Africa's Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, particularly the Lebombo Mountains.^[19]^[6] Subsp. somalense occurs in the Horn of Africa, primarily in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya.^[25] On the Arabian Peninsula, populations attributed to var. arabicum are found in southwestern regions of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.^[13] Additionally, the Socotra Archipelago hosts A. socotranum, a closely related taxon endemic to this Yemeni island group.^[12] The species shows evidence of long-term adaptation to arid environments, with its current range reflecting ancient distributions shaped by climatic conditions in these regions.^[26] While widely cultivated as an ornamental worldwide, A. obesum has become naturalized only in limited non-native areas, such as Sri Lanka and parts of southeastern Asia including Thailand; elsewhere, including occasional escapes in places like Florida, it does not establish self-sustaining populations beyond its native habitats.

Environmental Preferences

Adenium obesum is adapted to hot, dry climates typical of savannas and semi-deserts, where annual rainfall ranges from 200 to 800 mm, often concentrated in short wet seasons followed by prolonged dry periods. Daytime temperatures commonly reach 20–40°C, with the plant thriving above 30°C during the growing season, while it can tolerate brief drops to about 10°C if kept dry, though prolonged exposure below 10°C causes damage.^[1]^[27] The species prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils with a pH of 6.0–7.5, which prevent waterlogging and support its succulent nature; it performs well in limestone or volcanic substrates that enhance drainage in arid conditions.^[1]^[28] Key adaptations include succulence in the thickened caudex and stems, which store water to endure drought, and deciduousness during extended dry seasons to minimize transpiration losses. Its root system features a fleshy taproot combined with shallow, extensive lateral roots that efficiently capture moisture from ephemeral rains.^[1]^[29] In its natural range, A. obesum occupies microhabitats such as rocky outcrops, wadis, and thorn scrub vegetation, typically at elevations from 0 to 2,000 m, where these sites provide shelter and optimal drainage.^[1]^[30]

Ecology

Pollination and Dispersal

Adenium obesum exhibits a specialized pollination syndrome adapted to its arid habitats, primarily relying on insects with long proboscides for effective pollen transfer. The flowers, with their tubular corollas and intricate gynostegium structure, facilitate pollination by hawkmoths (Sphingidae), which insert their proboscis through slits in the anther cone to access nectar while depositing or collecting pollinia.^[31] Bees and butterflies also serve as secondary pollinators in some populations, drawn to the open, colorful blooms during daylight hours.^[29] The flowers remain receptive for over 24 hours, supporting both nocturnal and diurnal visitation, though specific fragrance emissions aiding hawkmoth attraction remain understudied.^[32] The breeding system of A. obesum is predominantly outcrossing, with self-pollination rare due to the flower's morphology that promotes cross-pollination between individuals. Fruit set in wild populations is notably low, largely attributable to the dependence on specific pollinators and sparse insect activity in dry environments.^[33] Seed dispersal occurs mainly through anemochory, facilitated by wind. Mature follicles dehisce along one suture, releasing numerous lightweight seeds equipped with a hairy pappus that aids airborne transport over distances suitable for colonizing patchy arid landscapes.^[34]^[29] Occasional zoochory by small mammals may occur when seeds adhere to fur, though this is secondary to wind dispersal.^[29] Flowering phenology in A. obesum is closely tied to seasonal rainfall, with blooms typically triggered by the onset of the wet season to maximize pollinator availability and reproductive success.^[35] In native ranges, this often aligns with March to June, varying by local climate. Seeds germinate rapidly under favorable conditions, emerging within 7–14 days on moist, sandy substrates at temperatures around 29–35°C, enabling quick establishment before drought returns.^[9]

Interactions with Fauna

Adenium obesum exhibits several non-reproductive interactions with fauna, primarily shaped by its chemical defenses and role in arid food webs. The plant's leaves and flowers are subject to herbivory by caterpillars of certain Lepidoptera species that feed on Apocynaceae hosts. These larvae can defoliate young plants, though such damage is more commonly observed in cultivation than in the wild. Despite its toxicity, Adenium obesum experiences browsing by large herbivores in its native range. Game animals, including impala and other ungulates, graze on young plants and foliage, though the plant's potent defenses limit widespread consumption by most mammals.^[36] The species contains cardiac glycosides, such as oleandrin, which deter many browsers by inducing heart arrhythmias, gastrointestinal distress, and potentially fatal cardiac effects upon ingestion.^[37]^[38] These toxins contribute to the plant's survival in predator-rich savannas, positioning it as a low-preference forage item in the broader ecosystem. In terms of mutualistic relationships, Adenium obesum forms associations that enhance nutrient uptake in nutrient-poor soils. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonize its roots, facilitating phosphorus acquisition and improving drought tolerance in arid habitats.^[39] While extrafloral nectaries are present in some Apocynaceae relatives, specific ant mutualisms for defense remain undocumented for this species in natural settings. Overall, Adenium obesum plays a niche role in food webs, primarily as a toxic host for specialist herbivores with minimal generalist pest pressure in the wild, where drought stress poses a greater threat than faunal interactions. Native interactions include browsing by local ungulates, but specific specialist insects remain understudied.^[40]

Conservation

Status and Threats

Adenium obesum is assessed as Least Concern globally by the IUCN Red List (as of 2019), reflecting its wide distribution and relatively stable populations across much of its native range.^[41] However, conservation status varies among closely related species; for instance, the related species Adenium swazicum is classified as Vulnerable (national assessment by SANBI) due to its extremely limited range.^[42] In contrast, Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum is also rated Least Concern, benefiting from more extensive habitats on Socotra Island. The primary threats to Adenium obesum include habitat loss driven by agricultural expansion and overgrazing, which have contributed to significant declines in certain regions, such as an estimated 20% reduction in Adenium swazicum populations in Eswatini since 1990, with projections of 30-40% further loss over the coming decades.^[42] Overcollection for horticultural trade exacerbates these pressures, particularly for rare subspecies targeted by collectors.^[43] Additionally, climate change poses risks by altering rainfall patterns and increasing drought intensity in arid habitats, potentially disrupting regeneration and survival.^[29] Population trends for Adenium obesum remain stable in core native ranges, though fragmentation from habitat conversion has isolated subpopulations, increasing vulnerability to localized extinctions.^[44] No major new declines have been reported in assessments conducted after 2024.

Protection Measures

In-situ conservation efforts for Adenium obesum subspecies focus on protecting natural habitats in key regions. For the vulnerable related species Adenium swazicum, approximately 56% of its habitat is safeguarded within Kruger National Park in South Africa, where populations are monitored to prevent habitat loss and illegal collection.^[42] This protected area provides a secure environment for the species, which is restricted to sodic soils in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Eswatini. Similarly, Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum benefits from the UNESCO World Heritage status of the Socotra Archipelago, where authorities enforce measures against unauthorized plant collection to preserve rocky slope habitats.^[45] These reserves help maintain the subspecies' stable populations, assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN.^[46] Ex-situ conservation complements these initiatives through seed storage and propagation. Studies on seed viability and cryopreservation demonstrate that A. obesum seeds tolerate liquid nitrogen storage without cryoprotectants, enabling long-term preservation of genetic material for potential reintroduction.^[47] Botanical gardens, such as those affiliated with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, contribute by maintaining living collections and supporting propagation research for succulent species like Adenium, aiding global ex-situ efforts.^[48] International agreements guide broader protection, though Adenium obesum is not listed under CITES, allowing regulated trade while emphasizing sustainable practices.^[49] The IUCN Species Survival Commission provides assessments that inform regional action, with updates highlighting the need for habitat monitoring across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In Socotra, the Socotra Archipelago Conservation and Development Program integrates protection with local development to sustain biodiversity.^[50] Research initiatives advance restoration through genetic analyses. Chloroplast genome characterization reveals conserved structures and polymorphisms in A. obesum, supporting breeding for resilient populations and ex-situ restoration.^[51] Community education in Yemen's Socotra region reduces poaching risks via programs emphasizing ecological value, led by organizations like UNEP to build local stewardship.^[52] These efforts, including awareness on endemic plants, foster sustainable practices amid environmental pressures.^[53]

Human Uses and Cultivation

Ornamental and Horticultural Practices

Adenium obesum is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its striking flowers, swollen caudex, and adaptability to container growing, making it a favorite for indoor and outdoor displays in warm climates. It thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to promote profuse blooming and prevent leggy growth.^[54] Well-draining soil is essential to avoid root rot, with a cactus or succulent mix amended with sand or perlite recommended for optimal aeration and moisture control.^[55] The plant prefers temperatures above 10°C (50°F) year-round, with ideal growing conditions between 15°C and 32°C (60°F and 90°F); during winter dormancy, maintain 15–20°C (59–68°F) to minimize stress while allowing the plant to rest.^[56]^[57] Propagation of A. obesum is straightforward and commonly achieved through seeds, stem cuttings, or grafting, enabling hobbyists to produce diverse specimens. Seeds germinate readily when sown in a moist, well-draining medium at temperatures of 20–35°C (68–95°F), typically sprouting within 1–2 weeks under consistent warmth and humidity.^[58] Stem cuttings root reliably in 2–6 weeks when taken from healthy branches, allowed to callus for 1–2 days, and planted in gritty, fast-draining soil kept slightly moist and out of direct sun until established.^[59] Grafting is particularly useful for hybrid varieties, joining scions to robust rootstocks like seedling A. obesum to enhance vigor and preserve desirable flower traits, with success rates improved by matching cambium layers and using fungicide.^[60] Ongoing care emphasizes moderation to mimic the plant's arid native conditions, fostering healthy growth and vibrant displays. Water sparingly during the active growing season (spring to fall), allowing the soil to dry completely between applications—typically every 2–3 weeks—while withholding water entirely during winter dormancy to prevent rot.^[61] Fertilize monthly from spring through summer with a low-nitrogen, balanced formula (e.g., 5-10-10) diluted to half strength, ceasing applications in fall to avoid soft growth; this supports flowering without excessive foliage.^[57] Pruning is best performed in spring or early summer to shape the plant, removing dead or crossing branches and shortening stems above nodes to encourage bushiness; this technique is especially valued in bonsai cultivation, where the caudex's natural swelling is accentuated through selective trimming and wiring.^[62] The species has earned recognition for its ornamental merit, receiving the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in 2002 for its reliability in heated greenhouses above 15°C.^[63] Popular cultivars include 'Ice Pink', noted for its compact growth habit and pale pink flowers that enhance its suitability for smaller containers and indoor settings.^[64]

Traditional and Medicinal Applications

Adenium obesum has been employed in various traditional practices across its native range, particularly for its toxic properties derived from cardiac glycosides present in the sap, roots, stems, and latex. In many African communities, the root sap, stem latex, or bark is used to prepare arrow poisons for hunting large game, with reports of its application by groups such as the Hadza people in eastern Africa.^[40] These poisons act rapidly on the cardiovascular system due to compounds like ouabain and related cardenolides, which inhibit Na+/K+-ATPase and disrupt heart function. Additionally, decoctions of the bark and leaves serve as fish toxins in Sahelian regions, stunning or killing fish for easier harvesting by disrupting gill function and cardiac activity. The plant's glycosides are highly potent, with pure cardiac glycosides from similar sources exhibiting fatal doses in mammals as low as 0.5 mg/kg body weight intravenously, though oral toxicity from crude extracts is lower but still significant. Despite its toxicity, diluted preparations of Adenium obesum have found limited use in traditional medicine, primarily in Arabian and East African contexts. In Arabian traditional practices, including Yemen and Oman, root or bark decoctions are applied externally or taken internally in small, carefully diluted amounts to alleviate rheumatism, joint pains, sprains, and bone dislocations, leveraging the plant's anti-inflammatory potential while minimizing cardiac risks.^[2] Some reports indicate its use as a cardiac tonic for heart conditions in these regions, attributed to the same glycosides that provide positive inotropic effects at sub-toxic doses, similar to digitalis. In East Africa, particularly Somalia and northern Kenya, veterinary applications include rubbing latex on livestock heads to treat lice or applying powdered stems to eliminate skin parasites on camels and cattle, exploiting the plant's acaricidal and insecticidal properties.^[40] Beyond medicinal roles, Adenium obesum holds other traditional significance in its native areas. In African arid zones, it is planted in home gardens for its ornamental value, appreciated for the striking swollen caudex and vibrant flowers. Its high toxicity, however, restricts broader herbal applications; no parts are approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA for therapeutic use, and caution is advised due to risks of severe cardiac arrhythmias, gastrointestinal distress, and death even from minor ingestion.

Cultural Significance

Symbolism

In Ghana, Adenium obesum (or its subspecies, known as the impala lily) is the national flower, symbolizing resilience and elegance in the face of adversity.^[65] Its ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments has imbued it with meanings of endurance and survival.^[66] This resilience draws from the plant's physical adaptation to dry landscapes, evoking themes of grace amid scarcity.^[67] In various African cultures, the plant has been used to produce arrow and fish poisons, reflecting its practical role in traditional hunting and fishing practices among groups like the San peoples.^[68]^[69] Modern interpretations of Adenium obesum often emphasize prosperity and strength, influenced by its swollen caudex, which in feng shui practices signifies wealth accumulation and positive energy flow.^[5] In contemporary tattoo designs, it represents personal fortitude and survival, appealing to those seeking motifs of inner resilience.^[70] Additionally, the plant appears in modern art, such as David W. M. Roberts' Pressed Adenium Obesum (2023), celebrating biodiversity and the beauty of wildflowers.^[71]

Representation in Media

Adenium obesum has been featured on postage stamps to highlight floral biodiversity in its native regions. A 1983 Kenyan stamp depicts the plant's distinctive pink flower, emphasizing its ornamental value in East African flora.^[72] In Yemen, the subspecies Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum, endemic to Socotra, appears on a 1996 stamp from the "Rare Plants" series, showcasing endangered succulents of the Arabian Peninsula.^[73] The plant has appeared in botanical art since the 19th century. An illustration of Adenium obesum was published in volume 89 of Curtis's Botanical Magazine in 1863, capturing its swollen caudex and trumpet-shaped flowers in hand-colored detail.^[74] In contemporary media, Adenium obesum is prominently featured in photography for arid flora exhibits and publications, often highlighting its striking blooms against desert backdrops. Its popularity as an ornamental succulent has driven such visual portrayals in stock image collections and botanical photography archives.^[75]

References

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The Succulents of Socotra – Giants and Dwarfs for Island ...
Jun 24, 2025 · ... annual rainfall (<200 mm to 400 mm), during which precipitation ... precipitation to the lowland habitats of Adenium. This is the time ...
[29]
Florida Foliage House Plant Care: Adenium obesum
They have vibrant floral displays in shades of red, white, pink, and yellow. Flowers average 2–3 inches in diameter and may be single, double, or even triple.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
[30]
exploring the mysterious adenium obesum: its botanical appeal ...
Aug 18, 2023 · Known for its distinctive caudex, vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers, and resilience in harsh conditions, Adenium obesum holds both aesthetic and ...
[31]
Floristic composition of Jandaf Mountain as biodiversity hotspot area ...
Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem. & Schult. shrub, Ph, 2.7, 0.3, LC, UPPER. Calotropis ... Wadi Tarj habitat. The valley habitat (e.g., Wadi Tarj) around Jandaf ...
[32]
Adenium obesum (Desert Azalea, Desert Rose, Impala Lily, Mock ...
All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. Vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, depression, irregular heartbeat, and possibly death. Poison Toxic Principle: ...
[33]
Biology and structure of flowers in Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem ...
The pollination mechanism of Adenium (Apocynaceae). G D Rowley. Reproductive biology of Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer ex Decne. (Periplocoideae ...
[34]
(PDF) Adenium obesum as a new potted flower: Growth management
Aug 6, 2025 · This technical article aimed to provide information related to the Adenium growth, in view of its commercial scale production.
[35]
[PDF] Biological Activities of Adenium Obesum: A Review
Nov 15, 2022 · Plant Description: Adenium obesum is a lovely pachycaul shrub that is deciduous and has irregularly spaced, thick, smooth, greyish-green to ...
[36]
[PDF] Phenology of Woody Species Along the Climatic Gradient in West ...
Mar 21, 2012 · Eighteen percent had a short leafing period limited to the rainy season sensu stricto, including Acacia seyal, Adenium obesum,. Commiphora ...
[37]
[PDF] Oleander-Caterpillar-vs-Gulf-Frittilary.pdf - UF/IFAS Extension
• Host Plants: Oleander (Nerium oleander) and. Desert Rose (Adenium obesum). • Pest Potential: Caterpillars damage host plants but typically will not kill them.
[38]
Adenium obesum (Forsk) (Apocynaceae)- A new Larval Host Plant ...
Aug 24, 2020 · Adenium obesum (Forsk) (Apocynaceae)- A new Larval Host Plant of The Common Indian Crow Euploea core (Cramer) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae).
[39]
Eswatini's Flora - siSwati Names and Uses
Adenium multiflorum (Impala Lily). Fodder. Browsed by game, goats & cattle but can be poisonous. Adenium obesum (Desert Rose). Heavily browsed by game and stock.<|control11|><|separator|>
[40]
Desert Rose - ASPCA
Scientific Name: Adenium obesum. Family: Apocynaceae. Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses. Toxic Principles: Cardiac glycosides. Clinical ...
[41]
Houseplants and Ornamentals Toxic to Animals - Toxicology
Common houseplants and ornamentals that contain cardiac glycosides include the following: Adenium obesum (desert rose). Asclepias spp (milkweed).Missing: mammals | Show results with:mammals
[42]
Utilization of soil ameliorant and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to ...
... Adenium obesum [11], and is still rarely applied to forestry plants such as ... This indicates that mycorrhizal inoculation in plants can optimize the absorption ...
[43]
Summer Impala Lily - Red List of South African Plants - SANBI
Seed viability, germination and seedling emergence of the critically endangered stem succulent, Adenium swazicum, in South Africa. South African Journal of ...Missing: IUCN | Show results with:IUCN
[44]
(PDF) The critically endangered succulent, Adenium swazicum
Jun 8, 2016 · SABONET, Pretoria. Plaizier, A.C. 1980. The revision of Adenium. Mededelingen. Landbouwhogeschool Wageningen 80, 12: 9–13.
[45]
Adenium obesum Roem. & Schult. - World Flora Online
Adenium arabicum Balf.f. · Adenium arboreum Ehrenb. · Adenium coetaneum Stapf · Adenium honghel Lindl. · Adenium micranthum Stapf · Adenium obesum subsp. socotranum ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[46]
https://sustainablebioresources.com/plants/plant-families/apocynaceae/adenium/adenium-socotranum/
[47]
Socotra Archipelago - IUCN World Heritage Outlook
A review of the Socotra Conservation Zoning Plan (SCZP) remains underway. Overall, there is a need to improve management through sustainable funding mechanisms ...
[48]
Adenium socotranum (Socotra Desert Rose)
Jul 11, 2022 · This subspecies of Adenium obesum is only found on Socotra, the largest island in an isolated archipelago of the Republic of Yemen located south ...
[49]
Cryopreservation of <i>Adenium obesum</i> seeds in liquid nitrogen
Adenium obesum seeds show tolerance to immersion and storage in liquid nitrogen and do not need cryoprotectants to maintain their physiological quality when ...
[50]
Millennium Seed Bank - Kew Gardens
The Millennium Seed Bank (MSB) is home to over 2.5 billion seeds from wild plants, representing over 40,000 different species and taxa from countries ...Missing: obesum situ
[51]
[PDF] Growing Adeniums in Southern Arizona - Cooperative Extension
The ornamental strongpoints of A. obesum are ease of cultivation, fast growth rate, attractive glossy leaves which may be evergreen, and large attractive ...
[52]
Preserving the Perishing Endangered Natural Biodiversity of ...
There is also another unique endangered endemic species, the Desert Rose (Adeniumobesum subsp. socotranum). This tree is also known as the “bottle tree” for its ...
[53]
The cp genome characterization of Adenium obesum - NIH
The A. obesum cp genome is 154,437 bp with 38.1% GC, 127 genes, mononucleotide repeats, and is similar to other angiosperms. SSRs are A/T rich.
[54]
Yemen: protecting Socotra's dwindling biodiversity - UNEP
May 20, 2022 · UNEP works with Yemeni authorities to protect the biodiversity of Socotra Island during times of war.<|separator|>
[55]
The Endemic Socotra Plants: Unveiling Nature's Hidden Gems
Oct 11, 2025 · Education programs focusing on the ecological significance of this species and the threats it faces help to empower both locals and visitors to ...
[56]
Desert Rose - Gardening Solutions - University of Florida
To maintain the profuse flowering, the plants must six hours or more of bright light each day. Desert rose makes a dramatic specimen for a deck or patio but ...
[57]
How to Grow and Care for Desert Rose - The Spruce
Sep 5, 2025 · Desert rose (Adenium obesum) is an easy-growing, drought-resistant plant. Learn more about its ideal growing conditions, propagation methods ...Missing: naturalized | Show results with:naturalized
[58]
Growing Desert Rose in San Antonio, Texas: Care Guide
Jul 21, 2024 · These tropical plants prefer a temperature range OF 60° – 90°F. They must be moved in for protection once temps hit 50°F.
[59]
Seed viability, germination and seedling emergence of the critically ...
This study shows that (a) seed germination is rapid and with high percentages after being cued by warm to hot summer temperatures, a period when rainfall is ...
[60]
How to seedling : Adenium Seed. - Ewaterplant
Feb 15, 2025 · Wait for germination: Adenium seeds typically take 2-4 weeks to germinate. Keep moist and maintain warm temperatures during this time.
[61]
How to Propagate a Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
Oct 8, 2025 · Rooted cuttings will form a very thick trunk in time. Seed ... The cutting should take root in about 2 to 6 weeks. Source ...
[62]
Easy Grafting Technique for Adenium (Desert Rose)
Propagation of these hybrids by grafting has a better success rate than by seeds, if they're even available. By using native root stocks, this ensures that the ...
[63]
How to Grow and Care for Desert Rose for Beautiful Flowers
Stop Fertilizing in Fall and Winter: During the fall and winter, when the plant is dormant, stop fertilizing until growth resumes in spring.
[64]
Pruning Desert Rose (Adenium Obesum) - Joy Us Garden
May 1, 2020 · Prune in spring/summer, remove crossing branches, cut at an angle above a node, and shorten branches by 6-9 inches. Water 3 days prior. Wear ...
[65]
[PDF] AGM Plants December 2024 © RHS – ORNAMENTAL
Figures before the name give the year of the award. For key to codes after names, go to https://bit.ly/2xFsEhw. For an Excel version of this document ...
[66]
Effect of Light Intensity and Nutrition Level on Growth and Flowering ...
A. obesum 'Ice Pink' canopy height and width increased as shade and fertilizer levels increased (Table 2). Leaf length and width were greater as shade increased ...
[67]
Impala Lily Care - PlantIn
It is native to Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, and its low maintenance requirements and striking appearance make it a popular choice among gardeners.
[68]
Guide to Flower Symbolism in Different Countries in Africa
Dec 24, 2024 · Sudan: Desert Rose (Adenium obesum). Symbolism: Survival and beauty in adversity. The desert rose thrives in harsh conditions and is a ...
[69]
The Desert Rose: Why Adenium Obesum is Considered a Lucky ...
Mar 7, 2025 · The Desert Rose (Adenium obesum), known for its breathtaking flowers and sculptural caudex, has been a symbol of prosperity, endurance, and ...
[70]
Desert Rose: Beyond Beauty Lies Ecological Importance in Yemen
Aug 18, 2025 · Fostering a deep connection with Yemen's heritage, the Desert Rose symbolizes resilience and beauty in local folklore and traditions. This ...
[71]
Symbolism And Benefits Of The Desert Rose Plant - Greg
Jun 14, 2024 · The Desert Rose (Adenium obesum), with its vibrant blooms, has long been a symbol of prosperity and abundance. Native to Africa and the ...
[72]
David W. M. Roberts | Pressed Adenium Obesum (2023) - Artsy
In stock Free deliveryThe bark, roots and flowers have medicinal properties and research is ongoing to identify potential cancer treatments. But the sap is toxic. Hunters would ...
[73]
A stamp printed in Kenya, shows a flower Adenium obesum, circa ...
A stamp printed in Kenya, shows a flower Adenium obesum, circa 1983. Author credit line: Vladirina. ID: 247126507. © Vladimir Gnedin | Dreamstime.com.
[74]
https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/439114
[75]
v.89=ser.3:v.19 (1863) [no.5354-5419] - Curtis's botanical magazine
... Curtis's botanical magazine. Close Dialog. Text Sources. Page text in BHL ... (Illustration). Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem. & Schult. Adenium Roem ...
[76]
499 Adenium Obesum Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images
Browse 499 authentic adenium obesum stock photos, high-res images, and pictures, or explore additional plumeria rubra or adenophora stock images to find the ...Missing: modern arid flora
[77]
Desert bloom, Surviving, The Private Life of Plants BBC Two
Mar 27, 2018 · Share your videos with friends, family, and the world.Missing: Adenium obesum 2022