Frank,

The last time I asked some for a pithy answer they told be to pith off, but that's neither here nor there.

1) It should be, if it's been crossed with the same parents.

2) Like any others

3) I'd guess 3-5 years - longer for us here in the North.

4) Yes, that's true with any seed-grown plant I guess.

One last thing - make sure you're dealing with a reputable dealer.

http://www.adenium.com.tw/indexe.htm This vendor has that hybrid and is pretty good from what I know. I have spoken with another forum participant who did order from him and she was satisfied with her purchase. I plan to order several of his hybrids this spring. He does say on his website that some hybrids DO NOT bloom true to parents.

Jeff,
Your reply to Frank made me laugh,I'm still laughing. You are too funny.
Sharon

Thanks, one and all for the short story. I had my reservations, and doubts...and you told me what I needed.

Sharon...I laughed too. Thanks, Jeff... for the smiles.

bikerdoc5968:....Thanks for the caveats re: seed vendors.

You all helped.

Frank

Some inform. about Adeniums from seeds.
Here is a link that might be useful:Adeniums

longaeva 54, et al.

I've read all the information about growing "named" Adenium from seed, and even e-mailed a supplier who told me that the seeds will breed true-to-type because the flower crosses are "hand pollinated". The last link was very informative.

I personally think the "true-to-type" claim by some seed sellers, is a big crock! But what alternative do I have, -other than growing selected seeds- if I want to grow a special variety? I can't find any growers in the US with imported plants, and the grafted plants are ugly, and very obviously joined.

I guess I'll have to take my chances on growing from seed...a long, labor-intensive, and ANNOYING undertaking...and, for maybe nothing but scrap-heap plants. At least the seeds are cheap.

Thanks again for the information.

Frank

I'm also in zone 7 and have had a couple that reached blooming size from seed in 2 years but most have taken longer. I either winter them over inside or sometimes in the greenhouse. My seedlings don't go dormant for at least a year. Mine have not come true and I didn't expect them to but I have had some pretty blooms that aren't the common solid dark pink. Still waiting for a yellow. I recently started some called Star of Yellow Dream, we'll see. If you want a specific variety it's best to get a grafted plant. You must have seen some bad grafts. I've seen beautiful plants with an almost invisible graft scar but agree that they are difficult to find.

karyn1:

Thanks for the additional, and very interesting cultural information. I think I will try some of these plants if I could find a good grower with first-rate plants, and cultivars.

I wonder if grafted plants will eventually heal over, and look "normal" as time goes by, or, will the graft always be visable? What about rooted cuttings? Will they develop the usual large, fat caudex that seedlings develop?

Any sources for premium plants...in the US?

Thanks,

Frank

Frank, there is one ebay seller from Florida, his listing is very good price and the flowers are double, triple and even quatro.
look up his ID "Azurite"