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Adenium
Black Beauty is a perennial found in Taiwan. They are one of primary pollinated species.
It is a multi-trunked shrub or small tree growing about
half as wide as it does high. It will grow from 5 to 8
feet in the wild. The trunk form, foliage, and flowers
are all very attractive. Each desert rose creates its own
sculptural design. The base is large (obesum) and in
various shapes.
The shiny long green leaves are attractive. Leaves
normally fall in Winter. The
specific features are their abundant flowers with the
clear black on the petals' borders. Their diameters are
around 6-8 cm. The Desert Rose produce a massive stem when
growing older, but will start blooming when quite young,
at only 6 inches tall.
Do pruning after the plant's rest period. Heavy pruning
should be kept to a minimum. New shoots can be pruned
regularly. The sap is poisonous, so clean hands after
pruning.
Hardiness zones 9 -11, (4°C/40°F,-5°C/25°F) in Winter.
Extended periods below 40°F (4°C) might kill some of
the branch tips. In Summer, if possible, move outdoors to
a sunny or partly shaded location. Needs lots of light
and fresh air. Keep in a bright location in Winter.
Idealy, growing temperature should not be below 54°F.
However, in the Winter, keeping it cool, between 54-61°F.
Give the plant a needed rest.
Use a mix of 2 parts peat moss, and one part sand,
slightly alkaline soil. Fertilize monthly during Spring
and Summer. Water when growing, keep on the dry side in
Winter. The tree needs perfect drainage. It will lose
leaves if overwatered.
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