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indigenous

Adeniums
Around 5 species of Adenium are indigenous to
southern africa. They are small succulent shrubs
with swollen, caudescent stems, and evocative
names to highlight their exquisite flowers, like the
Sabi Star.

In Botswana, Adenium boehmianum is listed as
endangered, as plants are only found in a small
restricted area of the country, and A. oleifolium is
listed as vulnerable as the existing populations
appear to be declining. The flowers are usually a
shade of pink, purple or a mix of pink and white.

In nurseries A. multiflorum and A. obesum are
commonly for sale, and are very easy to grow. They
love hot dry open spaces, and are incredibly drought
tolerant. Plant in well drained soil in a rockery or
open space in the garden. They are slow growing,
but will reward you with beautiful splashes of
colour when in flower. They have been used as an
arrow poison for hunting, so make sure to keep the
plants away from curious dogs. Text & Photos: by S C

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