Native to Africa and several countries on the Arabian Peninsula, the desert rose can reach four meters in height, but it is its smaller varieties that are conquering the world market – drawing attention mainly from those who cultivate bonsai.
Due to its slower growth, it can cost more than R$1,000.00! However, those interested in growing the flower can buy young branches or plant from seeds.
To do this, select a plastic vase, accommodate stones in the bottom and fill it with a mixture that contains 70% garden sand, 20% earth and 10% ground charcoal. The seeds ask for a distance of 10 cm between them and all must be lying down.
A layer of sieved substrate should be placed on top, then sprinkle with plenty of water and drain off the excess. Cover the vase with a transparent plastic bag and keep the seed in a place that gets a lot of sun.
See too
After 10 days, the seeds already start to germinate and, when they have 5 or 6 pairs of leaves, you can transfer them to individual vases. From here, the flower should stay in a sunny location for at least 4 hours – to bloom well.
Prepare the vase with airy substrate, as excess water in the roots is the main factor in the death of these plants. Aim for a mix with 50% coarse garden sand, 20% earth, 20% crushed pine bark and the remaining 10% manure.
To achieve a thick and sinuous stem, you must periodically use the same bonsai technique. Replanting, cutting the roots and upper shoots are some of the necessary precautions to prevent the appearance of fungi.
Every two years, carefully remove the root ball from the vase, add three fingers of substrate and return the element to its place. This causes the surface to be taken over by the earth, a few centimeters above the edge, which will be eliminated when watering, gradually exposing the roots.
This technique, called “root lift,” helps to give the plant a more sculptural appearance. But watch out for the sap! It is used as a poison in hunting by African tribes, it is so toxic. Carry out the entire process with gloves.
If you are not looking for a laborious project, the ideal is to buy young seedlings with well-formed stems and let them grow naturally.
*Via My Plants