Adenium obesum

The desert rose, Adenium obesum, is a shrubby succulent with glossy green leaves and red-pink flowers. It has a widespread native distribution in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, so in the UK it needs to be grown under glass all year. It's a popular choice for bonsai, in part owing to the swollen caudex, which stores water.

For best results, grow Adenium obesum under glass all year, in a container with well-drained soil, with added sharp sand to boost drainage. Grow in full sun, but provide with a bit of shade from the hottest summer sun. Find out more in our grow guide. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).