Adenium desert rose problem question: Hi, Please tell me if it’s normal for my Sabi Star or Desert Rose to change from from being tall and thin to suddenly start leaning way over curling up? I’ve had the adenium 1 year. No flowers yet. It’s very tall and has another shoot at the lower part of the main stem with leaves on it too. All the leaves appear to be healthy. Please tell me what i need to do to promote flower growth. I fertilize and water according to the directions I was given at the time I got it which is the same as your site. Thank you!
Desert Rose problem
Answer: Adenium plant should not lean over unless it has a heavy flower causing the branch to bend. The desert rose problem could indicate a lack of water which gives the branches strength to support itself. Or possible root problems.
Fertilizing a Desert Rose problem plant does not always solve problems. When was the last time you re-potted the plant? Have you check the adenium plants root system for rot? How old is the plant? I’m assuming “Sabi Star” was the name given when you purchased the plant. Was it a seedling?
The image to the right shows a large seedling about 1 year old. Its starting to produce lower branches which will increase the size of the caudex. The desert rose problem on this one is that it needs cropping. Cropping the top will force more growth at the base of the adenium plant. Plus the lower branches will grow faster.
I would the main branch 1/2 down. Once the desert rose plant is cropped keep it out of the sun for 7 days to let the cut heal. You do not need to put anything on the cut.
AdeniumRose Company crops plants all the time. The plants are left in a shade area with indirect sunlight for 2 to 3 weeks or until we see new branches form.