Desert Rose

Desert Rose is one of my favorite plants. Native to arid areas of Africa including Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
The rose is a succulent plant with pink , red, white and sometimes variegated flowers. It makes a good houseplant and frequently grown as a patio plant.

In order for your plant to do well the following conditions are important

• the plant needs to have full sun. Some shade is ok but it really loves the sun

• It needs dry conditions. The soil can remain dry for long periods of time.

• During the growing season it will require more water. It's good to water 3 x a week.

• It needs free drainage so use a gravel based compost.

• It loves warm weather but needs to be covered to prevent frost in autumn and winter.

You don't need to prune the plant except to keep the flowers in shape. Seeds can be bought or harvested from existing stock. Cuttings will work as well.

Note This plant does have a toxic sap so use gloves when working with the cuttings.

The Rose can be ignored for long periods of time and still bloom up to nine months of the year. It is a true beauty from the cactus world.