Greetings from the plant kingdom! We, the Adenium obesum, often called the Desert Rose, are eager to find a knowledgeable and caring home. Selecting a healthy specimen is the first step to a long and beautiful relationship. Here is a guide to help you find us in the best condition across the USA.
Before you search, understand our prime condition. A healthy Adenium possesses a firm, plump caudex (our swollen trunk base) without soft, mushy spots or significant scars. Our leaves should be a vibrant green, not yellowed or spotted, and firmly attached. During the growing season, look for active new growth at our stem tips. Be wary of any white, cottony masses (mealybugs) or fine webbing (spider mites) on our stems or undersides of leaves. A plant standing firmly in its pot indicates a well-established root system, which is crucial for our survival.
For the highest quality and most diverse selection, seek out specialty succulent and caudiciform nurseries. These experts understand our specific needs from seed to maturity. They often cultivate us in well-draining, gritty soil mixes we adore, preventing root rot. You can find them at local plant shows, dedicated cactus and succulent society sales, or through their online storefronts. Purchasing from these specialists often means acquiring a plant that is already acclimated to container life and comes with expert growing advice tailored to our species.
The digital world offers incredible access to rare and specific cultivars. When buying online, choose established retailers with strong phytosanitary certifications to ensure we cross state lines safely. Scrutinize product photos and descriptions carefully; a trustworthy seller will show the exact plant you are buying or, for smaller operations, provide a current photo upon request. Read customer reviews to gauge their packaging quality—we are delicate and must be shipped bare-root and securely to prevent damage to our stems and caudex during transit.
While you may occasionally find us at large chain stores, exercise caution. We are often mass-produced for quick sale and may be potted in standard, moisture-retentive potting soil that is detrimental to our health, leading to a higher risk of root rot. Carefully inspect our condition. Look for signs of overwatering, such as a yellowing leaf drop or a soft caudex. If you choose to purchase from here, be prepared to immediately repot us into a fast-draining soil mix and quarantine them from your other plants to prevent the spread of any potential pests.
