Red Desert Rose – Deep Scarlet Adenium

Red Desert Rose

The classic desert rose colour: a deep, saturated scarlet that reads almost black-red in bud and opens to a glowing crimson. It is the colour most growers picture when they hear Adenium obesum, and the one that photographs best against grey pots and pale walls.

Red desert roses are also the most forgiving about light. Where pale pinks scorch in full afternoon sun, the reds hold their colour and simply flower harder.

What ships

• Live, rooted plant with a firm caudex
• Packs of 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 plants — the per-plant price drops as the pack grows
• Free U.S. shipping and a 30-day arrive-alive guarantee

Care at a glance

Shipping and guarantee

Plants ship bare-root or in their growing pot, wrapped so the caudex cannot shift in transit. Orders leave within 1–2 business days. If a plant arrives with a soft or split caudex, send a photo within 30 days and we replace it.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I water a desert rose?

In summer, soak it until water runs out of the drainage hole, then wait until the soil is dry several inches down — usually 7–10 days. In winter, once every three to four weeks is enough.

Why is my desert rose dropping leaves?

Usually a cold snap or overwatering. It is normal for leaves to drop in winter dormancy; dropping in summer means the roots are staying wet.

Will it flower in the first year?

Established plants flower the first season. Seedlings take two to three years to reach flowering size.

Is the sap dangerous?

Yes — the sap is toxic to pets and irritating to skin. Wear gloves when repotting and keep the plant out of reach of cats and dogs.