Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &
Desert Rose &

Welcome to the world of Adenium arabicum - a stunning, popular evergreen flowering succulent whose thick stem naturally forms into a bonsai tree.  It is commonly known as a desert rose, but it is not a real rose, but has beautiful flowers like a rose.

While there are several types of desert rose, the two most popular ones are Adenium arabicum and Adenium obesum.   Out of these two Arabicum is our favorite and is known for its thick swollen caudex and delicate pink or white flowers; while the obesum  version does not have a thick stem but several smaller stems and boasts larger blooms in a variety of colors ranging from deep reds to vibrant yellow, pink or even white.   

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this desert rose can reach a height of 9 feet. The Adenium arabicum is the most commonly used desert rose plant for desert rose bonsai trees because it has a natural tendency to form a thick, swollen base known as a caudex. This caudex can be trained and shaped over time to create interesting and unique bonsai specimens. It is sometimes referred to as an elephant's foot plant because of this thicker, larger caudex that stores water.  

The leaves of this desert rose plant are wider and thicker than obesum, with fine silky hairs on the leaf surface that grow in clusters at the end of the stems, distinguishing it from the Adenium obesum (desert rose).  This light green leaves color can turn reddish or purple in response to stress. 

The most striking feature of the desert rose adenium arabicum is its flowers. It produces clusters of large, showy flowers that are usually pale pink or white but can also be red, yellow, or striped. The flowers have five petals and a prominent central tube, and they bloom from late spring to the summer or early fall. 

The Adenium arabicum plant is deciduous, shedding its lower leaves and flowers after the growing season. But don't worry, this is preparation for winter, as the adenium arabicum plants enter a dormant stage. However, it is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets. 

Watering Needs 

The Adenium arabicum is adapted to survive in arid conditions. As such, it has a low water requirement, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. In general, it is best to water the adenium desert rose thoroughly, but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and be sure to use a well-draining soil mix to prevent water from pooling around the roots. 

During the growing season, which typically lasts from spring to fall, the adenium arabicum may require more frequent watering. However, even during this time, it is important not to overwater the plant. In general, it is better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, as the desert rose is more likely to recover from drought than from waterlogged soil. 

Light Requirements

The Adenium arabicum is a sun-loving desert rose plant that requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. In its native habitat, it grows in full sun, and it is adapted to withstand the intense heat and light of the desert. As such, it should be placed in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window or under artificial grow lights. 

While the Adenium arabicum can tolerate some shade, it will not bloom as well in low light conditions. If a new pot of this bonsai desert rose is not receiving enough light, it may become leggy and weak, and it may not produce flowers at all. If you notice that your adenium plant is not thriving, try moving it to a sunnier location or supplementing its light with grow lights. 

Optimal Soil & fertilizer Needs

This desert rose plant prefers a well-draining potting soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. Avoid using heavy clay-based soils because they can retain too much water and cause root rot. 

The Adenium arabicum is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent fertilization. In general, it is best to fertilize it sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer that is formulated for succulent plants. A slow-release natural fertilizer or liquid fertilizer with an equal mix of NPK (5-10-5) can be applied once a year during the growing season. Be sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to rotted or dead roots and other problems. 

Hardiness Zones & More

The desert rose plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. It prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Ideally, it should be kept indoors in temperatures between 60-85°F. It can tolerate higher temperatures, but care should be taken to protect it from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

The Adenium arabicum is adapted to arid conditions and prefers low humidity. It can tolerate some humidity, but high humidity can lead to problems with fungal diseases and other issues. In general, the adenium plant prefers a relative humidity of 30-50%. If you live in a humid area, be sure to provide good air circulation around it to prevent moisture from building up on the leaves and stems. 

We think you will love this bonsai plant order your very own Adenium arabicum today and start enjoying its beauty in no time! 

Bloom Season Late spring, summer, fall
Botanical Name Adenium arabicum
Common Name Desert rose, elephant's foot plant
Dormancy Winter
Family Apocynaceae
Flower Color Pink, white, yellow, red
Genus Adenium
Growth Habit Caudiciform
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 10, 11
Mature Size 9 ft. tall
Native Area Arabian Peninsula
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By stem cuttings, seeds, grafting
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting soil
Special Features Easy to grow
Sun Exposure Full sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Toxic for humans, toxic for pets, keep away from childern
Watering Needs Low
Back To Plant Description Main Page

Is Adenium arabicum a desert rose? 

Yes, the adenium arabicum commonly known as the desert rose, is not a rose actually, and belongs to a different family and genus. It is a succulent plant that is native to the arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is prized for its showy flowers and striking caudex, or swollen stem base, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. 

How do you take care of Adenium arabicum? 

The adenium arabicum is a low-maintenance plant that requires bright, direct sunlight, minimal watering, using a well-draining soil mix, fertilizing once a year in the spring, pruning in spring, checking for pests regularly, and keeping it in a warm location between 60-85°F. By following these tips, the desert rose can thrive and produce beautiful flowers for years to come. 

How big does Adenium arabicum get? 

The size of the adenium arabicum (Desert rose) can vary depending on its growing conditions, but in general, it is a small to medium-sized plant. When grown in a container, it can reach a height of 3 feet and a width of 2 feet.  

However, if grown in the ground in its native habitat, it can grow much larger, up to 10 feet tall. The plant has a distinctive swollen stem base, called a caudex, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. With proper care, the Adenium arabicum can live for many years and continue to grow and develop. 

What is the difference between Arabicum and Adenium? 

Arabicum is a subspecies of the adenium plant, which is also known as the desert rose. The leaves of the arabicum are shiny on both the upper and lower side with more compact growth habit and bigger caudex, which distinguishes it from the Adenium obesum (desert rose).  

Because of its big swollen caudex, it is often used as desert rose bonsai plant. Additionally, the adenium arabicum has smaller pale pink flowers than the obesum which has bright pink flowers.

Back To Plant Description Main Page

Pests & Common Problems of Adenium arabicum

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, scales, aphids, and spider mites, as you would with the majority of species of indoor adenium plants. Although Adenium arabicum is not particularly susceptible to any of these pests, if you have other indoor plants that are infected, these pests will gladly move in with your desert rose plant. Use fungicide and antibacterial solution to remove these. 

Curling Leaves:  Evaluate your plant's growing situation closely to determine the cause of curling leaves, such as overwatering, underwatering, or temperature shock. Increase watering to prevent future curling, repot with fresh soil, and avoid major temperature changes. 

Stunted Growth: Make sure your adenium plant is getting enough light first and foremost. Low light levels will not allow your adenium plants to grow, and even moderate light will probably not be sufficient. So, make sure it is getting enough light and its roots are healthy. If not, propagate it to encourage it to develop new roots. 

Overwatering: It can also be a problem for Adenium arabicum as it can cause the roots to rot. To prevent this problem, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil and to avoid watering it too frequently.  

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Bloom Season Late spring, summer, fall
Botanical Name Adenium arabicum
Common Name Desert rose, elephant's foot plant
Dormancy Winter
Family Apocynaceae
Flower Color Pink, white, yellow, red
Genus Adenium
Growth Habit Caudiciform
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 10, 11
Mature Size 9 ft. tall
Native Area Arabian Peninsula
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By stem cuttings, seeds, grafting
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting soil
Special Features Easy to grow
Sun Exposure Full sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Toxic for humans, toxic for pets, keep away from childern
Watering Needs Low

FAQs - Adenium arabicum Plant

Is Adenium arabicum a desert rose? 

Yes, the adenium arabicum commonly known as the desert rose, is not a rose actually, and belongs to a different family and genus. It is a succulent plant that is native to the arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is prized for its showy flowers and striking caudex, or swollen stem base, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. 

How do you take care of Adenium arabicum? 

The adenium arabicum is a low-maintenance plant that requires bright, direct sunlight, minimal watering, using a well-draining soil mix, fertilizing once a year in the spring, pruning in spring, checking for pests regularly, and keeping it in a warm location between 60-85°F. By following these tips, the desert rose can thrive and produce beautiful flowers for years to come. 

How big does Adenium arabicum get? 

The size of the adenium arabicum (Desert rose) can vary depending on its growing conditions, but in general, it is a small to medium-sized plant. When grown in a container, it can reach a height of 3 feet and a width of 2 feet.  

However, if grown in the ground in its native habitat, it can grow much larger, up to 10 feet tall. The plant has a distinctive swollen stem base, called a caudex, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. With proper care, the Adenium arabicum can live for many years and continue to grow and develop. 

What is the difference between Arabicum and Adenium? 

Arabicum is a subspecies of the adenium plant, which is also known as the desert rose. The leaves of the arabicum are shiny on both the upper and lower side with more compact growth habit and bigger caudex, which distinguishes it from the Adenium obesum (desert rose).  

Because of its big swollen caudex, it is often used as desert rose bonsai plant. Additionally, the adenium arabicum has smaller pale pink flowers than the obesum which has bright pink flowers.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Desert Rose 'Adenium arabicum'

sku: 2429

14 reviews
Regular price$ 122.99
/

Free Shipping on all orders over $89*

Size
Height:
Diameter:
Height: 10"-13"
Diameter:
Height: 18" - 22"
Diameter:

Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

Please note: All perennial drought tolerant plants 1 gal or larger will be shipped bare root. Before sending perennial plants, we often trim the leafy parts and remove flowers or buds. This helps them survive shipping and adjust to transplanting better.
Perennial plants shipped Mon - Wed only.

Please note: Perennial plants shipped Mon - Wed only.

sku:
Detailed description of this plant is below...
  • Low stock - 2 items left and ready to ship
  • Inventory on the way

We guarantee our premium plants will arrive happy and healthy. If not we will replace them for free.

What makes us different is the passion for highest quality plants and the attention to the detail on all we do here at Planet Desert. We are confident in the quality of our products. That’s why all our plants have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return the product and get a product refund or exchange the product for another one, be it similar or not. Shipping charges may apply.

You can return a product for up to 14 days from the date you purchased it. Please submit photos with your order number to info@planetdesert.com to initiate this request and receive next steps for processing. Shipping fees may apply.

Any product you return must be in the same condition you received it and in the original packaging. Please keep the receipt.

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $69 in the Continental US.

Any plant that is 6" and larger that is not in our Houseplant category will be shipped bare root (without a pot).

What makes us different is the passion and the attention to detail in all we do here at Planet Desert. We are confident in the quality of our products. That’s why all our plants have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return the product and get a refund or exchange it for another one — similar or not. Shipping charges may apply.

You can return a product for up to 14 days from the date of purchase. Please submit photos with your order number to info@planetdesert.com to initiate your return. Shipping fees may apply.

  • First, lucky them! Second, in the cart — before checkout you’ll find an option to add a custom Greeting Card.
  • Click the Custom Greeting Card button to browse and select the design you like best. We have gift cards for most occasions.
  • After selecting your greeting card, scroll to the bottom of the cart. There you'll see a dropdown labeled Add a note to your order.
  • Use that note box to enter the message you’d like us to include with your gift. We’ll make sure it’s printed and packed with care!
  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Welcome to the world of Adenium arabicum - a stunning, popular evergreen flowering succulent whose thick stem naturally forms into a bonsai tree.  It is commonly known as a desert rose, but it is not a real rose, but has beautiful flowers like a rose.

While there are several types of desert rose, the two most popular ones are Adenium arabicum and Adenium obesum.   Out of these two Arabicum is our favorite and is known for its thick swollen caudex and delicate pink or white flowers; while the obesum  version does not have a thick stem but several smaller stems and boasts larger blooms in a variety of colors ranging from deep reds to vibrant yellow, pink or even white.   

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this desert rose can reach a height of 9 feet. The Adenium arabicum is the most commonly used desert rose plant for desert rose bonsai trees because it has a natural tendency to form a thick, swollen base known as a caudex. This caudex can be trained and shaped over time to create interesting and unique bonsai specimens. It is sometimes referred to as an elephant's foot plant because of this thicker, larger caudex that stores water.  

The leaves of this desert rose plant are wider and thicker than obesum, with fine silky hairs on the leaf surface that grow in clusters at the end of the stems, distinguishing it from the Adenium obesum (desert rose).  This light green leaves color can turn reddish or purple in response to stress. 

The most striking feature of the desert rose adenium arabicum is its flowers. It produces clusters of large, showy flowers that are usually pale pink or white but can also be red, yellow, or striped. The flowers have five petals and a prominent central tube, and they bloom from late spring to the summer or early fall. 

The Adenium arabicum plant is deciduous, shedding its lower leaves and flowers after the growing season. But don't worry, this is preparation for winter, as the adenium arabicum plants enter a dormant stage. However, it is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets. 

Watering Needs 

The Adenium arabicum is adapted to survive in arid conditions. As such, it has a low water requirement, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. In general, it is best to water the adenium desert rose thoroughly, but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and be sure to use a well-draining soil mix to prevent water from pooling around the roots. 

During the growing season, which typically lasts from spring to fall, the adenium arabicum may require more frequent watering. However, even during this time, it is important not to overwater the plant. In general, it is better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, as the desert rose is more likely to recover from drought than from waterlogged soil. 

Light Requirements

The Adenium arabicum is a sun-loving desert rose plant that requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. In its native habitat, it grows in full sun, and it is adapted to withstand the intense heat and light of the desert. As such, it should be placed in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window or under artificial grow lights. 

While the Adenium arabicum can tolerate some shade, it will not bloom as well in low light conditions. If a new pot of this bonsai desert rose is not receiving enough light, it may become leggy and weak, and it may not produce flowers at all. If you notice that your adenium plant is not thriving, try moving it to a sunnier location or supplementing its light with grow lights. 

Optimal Soil & fertilizer Needs

This desert rose plant prefers a well-draining potting soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. Avoid using heavy clay-based soils because they can retain too much water and cause root rot. 

The Adenium arabicum is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent fertilization. In general, it is best to fertilize it sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer that is formulated for succulent plants. A slow-release natural fertilizer or liquid fertilizer with an equal mix of NPK (5-10-5) can be applied once a year during the growing season. Be sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to rotted or dead roots and other problems. 

Hardiness Zones & More

The desert rose plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. It prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Ideally, it should be kept indoors in temperatures between 60-85°F. It can tolerate higher temperatures, but care should be taken to protect it from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

The Adenium arabicum is adapted to arid conditions and prefers low humidity. It can tolerate some humidity, but high humidity can lead to problems with fungal diseases and other issues. In general, the adenium plant prefers a relative humidity of 30-50%. If you live in a humid area, be sure to provide good air circulation around it to prevent moisture from building up on the leaves and stems. 

We think you will love this bonsai plant order your very own Adenium arabicum today and start enjoying its beauty in no time! 

Bloom Season Late spring, summer, fall
Botanical Name Adenium arabicum
Common Name Desert rose, elephant's foot plant
Dormancy Winter
Family Apocynaceae
Flower Color Pink, white, yellow, red
Genus Adenium
Growth Habit Caudiciform
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 10, 11
Mature Size 9 ft. tall
Native Area Arabian Peninsula
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By stem cuttings, seeds, grafting
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting soil
Special Features Easy to grow
Sun Exposure Full sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Toxic for humans, toxic for pets, keep away from childern
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Adenium arabicum

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, scales, aphids, and spider mites, as you would with the majority of species of indoor adenium plants. Although Adenium arabicum is not particularly susceptible to any of these pests, if you have other indoor plants that are infected, these pests will gladly move in with your desert rose plant. Use fungicide and antibacterial solution to remove these. 

Curling Leaves:  Evaluate your plant's growing situation closely to determine the cause of curling leaves, such as overwatering, underwatering, or temperature shock. Increase watering to prevent future curling, repot with fresh soil, and avoid major temperature changes. 

Stunted Growth: Make sure your adenium plant is getting enough light first and foremost. Low light levels will not allow your adenium plants to grow, and even moderate light will probably not be sufficient. So, make sure it is getting enough light and its roots are healthy. If not, propagate it to encourage it to develop new roots. 

Overwatering: It can also be a problem for Adenium arabicum as it can cause the roots to rot. To prevent this problem, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil and to avoid watering it too frequently.  

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Bloom Season Late spring, summer, fall
Botanical Name Adenium arabicum
Common Name Desert rose, elephant's foot plant
Dormancy Winter
Family Apocynaceae
Flower Color Pink, white, yellow, red
Genus Adenium
Growth Habit Caudiciform
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 10, 11
Mature Size 9 ft. tall
Native Area Arabian Peninsula
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By stem cuttings, seeds, grafting
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting soil
Special Features Easy to grow
Sun Exposure Full sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Toxic for humans, toxic for pets, keep away from childern
Watering Needs Low

FAQs - Adenium arabicum Plant

Is Adenium arabicum a desert rose? 

Yes, the adenium arabicum commonly known as the desert rose, is not a rose actually, and belongs to a different family and genus. It is a succulent plant that is native to the arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is prized for its showy flowers and striking caudex, or swollen stem base, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. 

How do you take care of Adenium arabicum? 

The adenium arabicum is a low-maintenance plant that requires bright, direct sunlight, minimal watering, using a well-draining soil mix, fertilizing once a year in the spring, pruning in spring, checking for pests regularly, and keeping it in a warm location between 60-85°F. By following these tips, the desert rose can thrive and produce beautiful flowers for years to come. 

How big does Adenium arabicum get? 

The size of the adenium arabicum (Desert rose) can vary depending on its growing conditions, but in general, it is a small to medium-sized plant. When grown in a container, it can reach a height of 3 feet and a width of 2 feet.  

However, if grown in the ground in its native habitat, it can grow much larger, up to 10 feet tall. The plant has a distinctive swollen stem base, called a caudex, which can be trained to develop interesting shapes over time. With proper care, the Adenium arabicum can live for many years and continue to grow and develop. 

What is the difference between Arabicum and Adenium? 

Arabicum is a subspecies of the adenium plant, which is also known as the desert rose. The leaves of the arabicum are shiny on both the upper and lower side with more compact growth habit and bigger caudex, which distinguishes it from the Adenium obesum (desert rose).  

Because of its big swollen caudex, it is often used as desert rose bonsai plant. Additionally, the adenium arabicum has smaller pale pink flowers than the obesum which has bright pink flowers.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Be the first to share your unique experience using the product.