Site hosted by Angelfire.com: Build your free website today!



SPECIES

Much confusion exists among the various botanists regarding a plant is a true species, a subspecies or variety. These are categorized based on characteristics that separate them into regional forms or species and their breeding influences that are passed down to their offspring

Adenium arabicum

A distinct species with broad felted or glossy leaves and interesting venetion. Several forms exists of this species with variable leaf type, stem coloration and flower size and coloration. Makes the largest squat caudex of all the species.

Top photo shows flowers of this species.



Bottom photo shows distinct caudex development

Adenium boehmianum

A deciduous species which is dormant for most of the year. Leaves, flowers and branches appear usually around August and grow rapidly increasing stem length and size in a few months. A slow growing species with beautiful flowers similiar to Adenium swazicum but broader, flatter and variable (pink to white) with a darker purple throat. These when crossed to other species would hopefully pass on their beautiful rounded flowers and pinkish-mauve colors. It is hoped that the dormancy period will be broken and plants remain leafy all year around.

Adenium yellow species

Closely allied toAdenium swazicum/boehmianum with pubescent leaves and in growth for 3 months out of the year. A rare plant found in a collection in South Africa. Some variation occurs with flowering. Flowers are usually darkest yellow upon opening, but gets pale white as they mature. Its been noted that several white clones also exhibit this yellow characteristic. But this is a distinct type with unusual growing characteristics.

Adenium multiflorum

A deciduous form with leaves dropping in winter, and new growth starting with buds and flowers. Usually spring blooming. Imparts flush flowering habit and dark red edge to offspring.

Adenium somalense Adenium somalense

A tropical species requiring warm winters and hot humid summers for best growth and flowering. This species can attain huge proportions in the right climate. Many will develop into trees if allowed to be planted in the ground in subtropical climates. Adenium somalense also has distimct foliage and growth habits.

Adenium somalense
Flower example.
Adenium somalense white form
In the wild, white as well as red and pink striped forms exist.