Exploring the entrepreneurial potential of Adenium obesum cultivation in the southern dry zone of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Adenium obesum (Desert Rose), known for its striking form and adaptability to arid conditions, is gaining popularity in the global ornamental horticulture industry. Despite this rising demand, its commercial potential in Sri Lanka remains underexplored, particularly in the Southern Dry Zone (annual rainfall 1,200–1,900 mm; pronounced dry season from March to August), which offers ideal climatic conditions for cultivation. This study explores the entrepreneurial opportunities and cultivation potential of A. obesum in the Southern Dry Zone of Sri Lanka. A survey was conducted among floriculture farmers (n = 96) from May to August 2024, targeting those currently engaged in flower and ornamental plant cultivation. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling, and data were collected through a pre-structured questionnaire. Analysis was performed using SPSS softwarewas for a one-sample proportion test at P<0.05. Among respondents, 9.3% reported floriculture as their primary source of income and more than half (56.5%) (P<0.05) had been engaged in the industry for over five years. However, the majority operated solely in the local market (90.9%) (P<0.05) and 54.2% recognized A. obesum as a commercially promising species. All participants expressed interest in technical training on propagation and maintenance for its cultivation.Key barriers identified were limited market access (58.3%), inadequate financial support (29.2%) and land constraints (12.5%). Globally, the export market for A. obesum recorded 46% growth in value 2024 compared to 2023. Given the regions dry climate and available labour force, the Southern Dry Zone hold strong potential for developing this species as an export crop. However, limited market access and low financial capacity remain major constraints. Farmers indicated that improving market linkages and financial support could address over 87% of the challenges to commercializing and exporting A. obesum in the region.