Hi Terry,

Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) is a succulent member of the Oleander family. (Note: Oleander family member plants are poisonous to pets and children.) In fact, many desert roses are actually grafted onto an oleander before they are sold. The grafted version will grow faster and produce more flowers. The non-grafted form has a bulbous, water-storing stem at the base (called a caudex). The grafted desert rose has a long, thin stem with a grafting lump higher up on the stem.

Desert rose must be in direct sun all year round if you want it to flower. That pretty much limits it to an unobstructed south-facing window.

In winter, desert rose has a dormant period during which it should be allowed to dry completely and kept in cool temps (55 to 60 degrees). It will shed most of its leaves during dormancy so don’t be alarmed. In the spring, resume normal watering and fertilize sparingly.

Flowers usually appear in April and again in September. In late fall, as the light decreases, leaves will start to drop. That is a signal that it is going into its dormant period.

Grafted desert roses can withstand warmer temps in winter and should be fertilized a bit more frequently.

Hi Cricket,

I am depressed just reading your description of PacNW winter weather!

I never say never, but I would have to say that the odds are against good desert rose flowering in your location. However, given your relatively mild climate, perhaps you can keep one outside longer and that might be enough to make up for the lack of indoor winter light.

Why don't you try one and report back to the rest of us on your success or lack thereof.

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I would have to say that the odds are against good desert rose flowering in your location.

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quote:

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Why don't you try one and report back to the rest of us on your success or lack thereof.

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My thoughts exactly!