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Desert Rose -Adenium obesum
General Information: The
Desert Rose is a native of East Africa. It will grow from 6 1/2
to 10 feet in the wild. It has fleshy leaves and beautiful 2-inch
pink open-trumpet shaped flowers. It is a succulent, and forms
more of a bush than a tree. It will be an indoor bonsai in all
but the warmest climates.
Lighting: Needs
lots of light and fresh air. Keep in a bright location in winter.
In summer, if possible, move outdoors to a sunny or partly shaded
location.
Temperature: Growing
temperature should not be below 54 degrees. However, in the winter,
keeping it cool (between 54-61 degrees) whch gives the plant
a needed rest.
Watering: Needs
little water during winter, especially when kept cool. Increase
water during growing and blooming periods. The total watering
needed is similar to crassula, portulacaria and other succulents,
and it will lose leaves if overwatered.
Feeding:
Monthly during spring and summer with liquid bonsai fertilizer.
Fish emulsion is also reported to work well.
Pruning and wiring: Style primarily by clip and grow. Do heavy pruning
after the plant's rest period. However, it bleeds profusely,
so heavy pruning should be kept to a minimum. New shoots can
be pruned regularly. The sap is poisonous, so clean hands after
pruning, and avoid getting sap into open wounds.
Propagation: Similar
to jade trees - cuttings need to be dried for 3-4 days before
planting in a sand-peat mix.
Repotting:
Root prune and repot every two years, after the winter rest period,
in a mix of 2 parts bonsai soil, 2 parts peat, and one part sand.
Can tolerate being pot-bound.
Bibliography:
"Bonsai in Your Home"
by Paul Lesniewicz.
Compiled by Sabrina Caine
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