desert rose (Adenium obesum)

Plant · GBIF taxon 7155887

desert rose

Adenium obesum

Also known as Sabi Star, Kudu Lily, Mock Azalea, Impala Lily

Desert rose stands out in arid drylands with its swollen, bulbous trunk and brilliant trumpet-shaped flowers that range from sweet pink to vivid crimson. The succulent produces a milky latex sap saturated with potent cardiac glycosides, historically harvested across Africa to coat hunting arrowheads. During severe dry spells, it sheds its narrow foliage to minimize water loss, relying on moisture stored inside its thick stem base.

SucculentFloweringDrought Tolerant

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—observations

—countries

—peak records

Not EvaluatedConservation status

Key facts

Diet & prey

Autotrophic (Photosynthetic)

Predators

Herbivorous Insects
Spider Mites
Caterpillars

ThreatsHabitat degradation, overcollection for ornamental trade

HabitatsArid scrublands, rocky hillsides, dry savannas

Life span50–100+ years

Size / weightNot available

Classification

OrderGentianales
FamilyApocynaceae
GenusAdenium
SpeciesAdenium obesum

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskHigh

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is high: All parts produce toxic sap containing cardiac glycosides; avoid skin contact and keep away from pets.
Why it is dangerous: Contains deadly cardiac glycosides that disrupt heart function, causing severe nausea, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and potential heart failure if ingested.
How to recognize a risky encounter: Recognized by its swollen grey trunk, thick succulent branches, glossy foliage, and showy pink or red trumpet flowers.
What to do: Wear heavy gloves when trimming or repotting, wash skin immediately after contact, and keep out of reach of children and domestic pets.

Responsible observation

Handling: Wear protective gloves when pruning or repotting to keep milky sap off skin.
Cultivation: Provide full sunlight and exceptionally fast-draining gritty soil to prevent root rot.
Pet Safety: Position potted plants entirely out of reach of cats and dogs due to intense toxicity.

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