As a Desert Rose (Adenium obesum), I am a sun-worshipper by nature, hailing from arid regions. My fundamental requirement is warmth. I enter a state of extreme distress when temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C). Prolonged exposure to temperatures at or below freezing (32°F / 0°C) is almost always fatal, as the water stored in my thick, succulent caudex freezes, causing my cells to rupture. My survival in cold US states is entirely dependent on your intervention to keep me in an environment consistently above 50°F (10°C).
You must understand that shorter days and cooler temperatures signal me to enter a dormant state. This is not a sign of illness but a vital survival mechanism. I will begin to drop my leaves to conserve energy and halt active growth. Do not be alarmed by this natural process. Attempting to force me to continue growing with fertilizer or excessive water during this time will be detrimental, as my roots cannot absorb nutrients in the cold, potentially leading to fatal rot.
Timing is crucial. I must be brought indoors well before the first frost threat, typically when nighttime temperatures consistently hover around 45-50°F (7-10°C). Please inspect my leaves and stems thoroughly for pests like aphids or spider mites before I come inside; a gentle spray of water or an application of insecticidal soap will ensure I don't bring problems into your home. Place me in my winter quarters, which should be the brightest spot you can provide, such as a south-facing window.
My ideal winter home is a cool, bright, and dry place. A slightly chilly garage with a window, a sunny basement, or an unheated but frost-free sunroom are perfect locations. The temperature should ideally be between 50-60°F (10-15°C). This cool period is essential for my health, allowing me a proper rest so I can burst into vigorous growth and bloom when spring returns.
This is the most important adjustment you must make for me. Since I am leafless and dormant, my water needs are minimal. Water me very sparingly, only enough to prevent my caudex from shriveling excessively. For many of my kind, this means a small drink only once a month or even less. The goal is to keep my soil nearly completely dry. Overwatering is the single greatest threat to my life during winter, as my dormant roots will quickly rot in cold, wet soil.
