How to Graft Adenium

Overview

Adenium, or the desert rose, is a plant that grows well in both desert-like conditions and in warm, wet climates, says the University of Florida Extension. Adenium is a species of plant that is broken down into several different subspecies that are native to a semi-arid climate. Adenium flowers range from a deep purple color to pink and white. It is propagated from seeds, cuttings and cleft grafting.

Step 1

Cut a 5-inch branch of new growth off of the donor adenium plant and wrap the scion in a wet paper towel to keep it fresh.

Step 2

Trim a 3/4-inch section from the scion to form a wedge using a sharp knife. Do not touch the exposed area to prevent oils from the hand from ruining the connection point.

Step 3

Remove 3 inches from the stem of the adenium rootstock, then make a 3/4-inch cut vertically across the cut surface to make a connection point. Keep the cut open with the edge of a screwdriver cleansed with rubbing alcohol, says the University of Missouri Extension.

Step 4

Insert the wedge of the scion into the rootstock cut so that the exposed area is completely covered in exposed flesh.

Step 5

Wrap the scion with grafting tape. Check on the graft in two weeks to see if the scion is actively growing and looks fresh. If the scion looks dead, the graft did not take.