From my perspective as a Desert Rose (Adenium obesum), the journey begins with my seed, which is not unlike a tiny, sleeping version of myself. Encased in a protective shell, I carry within me the complete blueprint for a magnificent, caudex-forming succulent. My dormancy is a survival strategy, but I am eager to sprout when the conditions perfectly mimic my ancestral home: warm, tropical summers. The single most critical signal for me to break dormancy is consistent heat. I require soil temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F) to activate the enzymes that initiate growth. Without this warmth, I will simply remain dormant, and if it's too cold and damp, I will rot instead of root.
My roots are exceptionally sensitive to excess moisture during my infancy. Therefore, the medium in which I am placed must be like the well-draining, sandy soils of a sun-baked landscape. A mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents is ideal, or you can create a blend of perlite, coarse sand, and a small amount of potting soil. The container, too, must have ample drainage holes. This environment allows water to pass through quickly, providing the hydration I need to swell and crack my shell without waterlogging my delicate, emerging radicle (the first root). Soggy conditions are a death sentence, inviting fungal pathogens that I have no defense against at this vulnerable stage.
Once sown on the surface of the moistened medium and lightly covered, my awakening begins. With consistent warmth, I will absorb water, swell, and send my radicle downward to anchor myself. Shortly after, the hypocotyl—the stem—will push upwards, bearing the seed coat. The first two leaves to appear, called cotyledons, are already pre-formed within the seed. They are not the true leaves but serve as my initial food factories. At this stage, I am incredibly delicate. I require bright, indirect light. Direct, harsh sunlight would scorch my tender tissues. The soil should be kept lightly moist but never wet; a gentle misting is often the safest way to provide water without disturbing my fragile roots.
As my true leaves begin to develop, you will see the distinctive oblong, fleshy foliage that defines my species. This is a period of rapid growth where I am establishing the foundation for my future caudex, the swollen trunk that stores water. It is crucial not to overwater me now. Allowing the top layer of soil to dry out completely between waterings encourages my roots to search for moisture, which in turn promotes a stronger, thicker caudex. Constant wetness will make me leggy and weak, with a thin base. I also welcome more direct sunlight at this stage, gradually acclimatizing me to the full sun I crave as a mature plant. This strong light is essential for compact, healthy growth and future flowering.
When I have developed several sets of true leaves and my root system has filled the small germination container, I am ready for my first home. This transplanting process must be done with care to avoid damaging my roots, which are still quite fine. Gently lift me, keeping the root ball intact, and place me into a slightly larger pot with the same well-draining soil mix. You may choose to plant me slightly higher to expose the top of the developing caudex, which helps it thicken and harden. From this point onward, my care mirrors that of a mature Desert Rose, but with a continued emphasis on bright light, warmth, and a careful watering regimen that respects my inherent drought-adapted nature.
