Desert rose care: watering, light and repotting
Also called adenium, impala lily · Adenium obesum · Apocynaceae family
30 d in winter
How often to water the desert rose?
Allow about 8 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 30 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Full sun and warmth. Keep it almost dry in winter, above 54 °F (12 °C). Its sap is highly toxic.
What light does it need?
The desert rose loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from May to July, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Yellow leaves dropping in autumn
Cause: Going dormant. What to do: Cut back watering sharply.
No flowers
Cause: Not enough sun. What to do: Give it at least six hours of direct sun.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the desert rose?
About every 8 days in spring and summer, and every 30 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the desert rose?
The desert rose loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the desert rose?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the desert rose?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the desert rose safe?
The desert rose is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the desert rose needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.