Is Desert Rose Poisonous? A Full Guide to Winter Care
The desert rose (Adenium obesum) originates from Kenya and Tanzania in Africa and is a type of succulent plant, but since this plant is native to Africa, it is naturally very afraid of the cold. So how do you get it through the winter safely? Well then, is the desert rose poisonous? How do you care for it in winter?
1. Is the desert rose poisonous?
The desert rose is poisonous. The desert rose belongs to the genus Adenium in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) and is somewhat toxic; its milky sap is highly toxic. If the desert rose is eaten by mistake, it will cause a faster heartbeat and irregular heart rate. In fact, there is only a single step between poison and medicine. Through proper means, these poisonous plants such as the desert rose can also serve humanity well and decorate humanity's beautiful homes.
2. Winter care methods for the desert rose
1. Light
The desert rose is native to East Africa down to the southern Arabian Peninsula, so it likes to grow in environments with high temperatures, an arid climate and plenty of sunlight. The desert rose is afraid of the cold, so in winter it is best to put it indoors, ideally behind a window where it can get sunlight, and to keep it dry.
2. Watering
The desert rose is very tolerant of drought, so every time you water it you must not give too much. If you water it too much, its roots will rot. Winter temperatures are relatively low, so watering must be controlled even more appropriately; watering once a week is enough. Also be careful to keep the potting soil dry, as only this will promote the growth of the desert rose.
3. Soil
Because of the conditions in which it grows, it also has certain requirements for the soil. Sandy soil has good drainage, so it is the first choice. During its lush growing period we can add some small gravel or river sand to its growing medium, which helps with drainage, and a mixed soil of leaf mould and fertile, loose sand is the best.
4. Fertilising
When fertilising the desert rose, under normal circumstances applying a phosphorus-potassium fertiliser once a month is enough, but in autumn and winter it enters its dormant period, when it grows very slowly or even stops growing, so no fertilising is needed in autumn and winter.
5. Pruning
Pruning the desert rose is also very important. If you do not pay attention to pruning it and let it grow as it pleases, it will easily lose its own ornamental value. The best time to prune it is after the flowering period. Be sure to remember that the more branches it has, the more flowers it will produce, so if you want it to bear more flowers, you must find a way to keep more side shoots.
The above is what Tuliu.com brings you regarding winter care methods for the desert rose. The flowering period of the desert rose is from May to December, which makes it one of the longer-flowering plants. Friends who like succulents and also like to enjoy flowers can give it a try.