What does the Impala Lily look like?
Adenium obesum develops a dramatically swollen, grey-green caudex (stem base) that gives the plant a bonsai-like sculptural quality. From this swollen base, slender branches bear glossy green leaves and clusters of funnel-shaped flowers in pink, red, white or bicolour combinations. In its native habitat, flowering occurs at the end of the dry season when leaves are absent, making the blooms even more spectacular.
Why is the Impala Lily Ghana's national flower?
The Impala Lily is widely cultivated across Ghana as an ornamental plant in gardens, courtyards and pots, valued for its beauty, drought-tolerance and architectural presence. Ghana chose it as a national symbol reflecting both the country's natural landscape and the resilience and beauty that characterise Ghanaian identity.
Growing Impala Lily in the UK
In the UK, the Impala Lily is grown as an exotic houseplant or in a warm greenhouse. It needs maximum sun — a south-facing windowsill is ideal. Use very free-draining cactus compost. Water freely in summer when in active growth, but reduce to very occasional watering from October to March. Keep frost-free at all times; ideal winter minimum is 10°C.
Flor nacional de Ghana
La flor nacional de Ghana es el Lirio del Impala (Adenium obesum), también conocido como Rosa del Desierto. Es una suculenta de tronco engrosado con flores en forma de embudo de color rosa, rojo y blanco.