Yellowing or dropping leaves can follow overwatering, overfertilizing, or low light. Leaf and flower drop can also be part of the winter rest.
How to care for desert rose
Desert rose needs at least six hours of high light, with no water during its winter rest.
Plant coveredAdenium obesumDesert rose · Setting described in this guide
Find a bright, steady position
Light and temperature
Provide bright sunlight. UF states that at least six hours of high light are needed to maintain summer flowering.
UF gives 75–95°F as a hot preference and notes chill effects at 55–35°F. Oregon State advises about 50°F as a minimum. Do not treat either as a universal cultivar limit.
Check the mix, drainage and pot
Watering, drainage and repotting
Water regularly during active growth, never leave the mix waterlogged, and withhold water during the three-to-four-month winter rest.
Use rich organic peat- or bark-based soil with strong drainage. A porous, well-drained medium limits rot.
Feed only during active growth
Fertilizer and active growth
Use low-dose liquid fertilizer according to the label weekly during summer growth.
Check the visible signs before changing care
Common problems
Mealybugs are listed as an indoor pest. Mites and aphids are also listed outdoors.
Use the verdict for this exact plant
Pet safety
Sources
- University of Florida IFAS ExtensionIndoor/Home/Office Cultivation Information
- Oregon State University Landscape PlantsPlant description; houseplant use; temperature; container medium
- University of Florida IFAS Extension blogCauses discussed for yellowing or dropping leaves
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name; toxic principle; dog, cat, and horse toxicity; clinical signs
Pet-safety information for catalog plants uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.