Desert rose (Adenium obesum)
Desert rose, also known as Impala lily, Mock azalea
The desert rose, known for its striking flowers, is often grown as a houseplant or bonsai. Native to the Sahara, tropical Africa, and Arabia, this succulent needs at least 50°F (10°C) to stay healthy. Interestingly, its sap was historically used to poison arrows in Africa.
Key Facts About Desert rose
Attributes of Desert rose
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent, Shrub
Plant Height
1 m to 3 m
Spread
90 cm to 1.5 m
Leaf Color
Green Gray
Flower Size
4 cm to 6 cm
Flower Color
Pink Red White
Scientific Classification of Desert rose
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Gentianales
Family
Dogbane
Genus
Adenium
Species
Desert rose
Toxicity
The sap, found throughout the plant, contains toxins called glycosides. Even a brief lick of the leaves or stem is enough to cause instant poisoning.