Marica,

That looks so beautiful! So very cool! Thanks for sharing.

The root structure appears to have been subjected to a technique used to create what is called "radial roots." The technique is for skilled growers, not for beginners. If something is not properly done it can cause fungus rot to set in. I wouldn't want to deal with that after growing a plant to maturity.

The technique requires allowing the Adenium to grow to maturity then cutting off the entire bottom half of the caudex. After letting it dry you apply about a quarter inch layer of plaster (spackle) to the bottom of the caudex so roots will no longer grow from the bottom. Once that dries, you place Super Thrive rooting hormone all the way around the perimeter of the bottom of the caudex where there is healthy tissue. This is where the new roots will grow in, creating radial roots.

Very cool, indeed!

The branching is created by strategic pruning, then wiring to bend down and shape.

I just started working with Adenium myself so I don't know how to do any of this... just techniques I've come across while researching.

- Maria Elena

Maria: I have been reading a lot here and at Siamadenium. along with reading up on Dimmitt at Arid lands. I have watched silent growing pruning and grafting vids at Youtube. I have learned a lot is custom to each grower, ferts, soil , style. I will get my plants this week of various ages. I started seeds and got stuff to do the grafting and bonsai. I have a lot to learn. It will be trail and error. It sounds like fun. I have done some bonsai before. Of course I will have a few plants that I will just let be natural so I can see them bloom (hopefully this summer). So Happy Spring.........

Good luck. Ladies. Keep us up to date.