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Adenium
Chameleon is a perennial found in Taiwan. It may be the
only Desert Rose that changes colors.
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. Adenium flowers, first opening
pure white, then adding pink streaks and pink blush. The
last color stage is a unique rose-pink. With multiple
booms, you enjoy seeing 3 colors all at once. 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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