Greetings from the realm of the succulent. We are Adenium obesum, often known by the name Desert Rose. To choose a thriving specimen of our kind, you must look beyond our showy flowers and understand the language of our stems, leaves, and roots. A healthy plant is a partnership, and selecting a vigorous one ensures we will reward you with spectacular blooms for years to come.
Our most distinctive feature is the caudex—the swollen, bulbous base that stores water. This is our lifeblood. A healthy caudex should feel firm and solid to the touch, like a ripe potato. Gently press it; it should not be soft, squishy, or wrinkled. A soft caudex often indicates rot, usually from overwatering, which is a death sentence for us. The stem above the caudex should be a healthy green or grey-green color, also firm, and free of any black, brown, or unnaturally soft spots. Scars are normal from old leaf drops, but fresh wounds or oozing sap are signs of distress or physical damage.
Our leaves are the engines of our growth. They should be a vibrant, glossy green, indicating good chlorophyll production and health. Examine them closely. They should be turgid (full of water) and free from discoloration. Be wary of yellowing leaves, especially if they are soft or dropping excessively, as this can signal overwatering or poor root health. Conversely, leaves that are dry, crispy, or brown at the tips might indicate underwatering or low humidity. Inspect the undersides of the leaves and the points where they join the stem (the petioles) for any signs of pests. Look for tiny webs (spider mites), small cotton-like masses (mealybugs), or the insects themselves.
If possible, gently inquire about the root system. A healthy Adenium should be securely anchored in its pot. If you can safely tip the plant out slightly (with the nursery's permission), the roots should be a light color, often whitish or tan, and feel firm. Dark, mushy, or slimy roots are a clear sign of root rot. A pot that feels excessively heavy for its size may be waterlogged, while a pot that is too light and loose could mean the root system is underdeveloped or the plant has been severely underwatered.
While you are likely drawn to us for our spectacular trumpet-shaped flowers, do not choose a plant based on flowers alone. A plant covered in blooms but with a soft caudex is using its last energy to flower. Instead, look for a plant with a strong, healthy structure that also has numerous flower buds. This indicates it has the energy reserves not only to produce this current display but also to generate future blooms. Healthy buds are plump and show color, promising a beautiful and sustained floral show once you bring us home.
