How to prune arabian desert rose

Early spring before new growth emerges, while the plant is semi-dormant. Make clean cuts back to a node or branch junction using sterilized sharp pruners. Allow the cut to callous in the open air for a day before watering. Wear gloves to avoid the toxic sap.

Rarely — only when removing dead wood or shaping a young plant; not an annual task. Arabian Desert Rose (Adenium arabicum) needs minimal pruning. Its swollen caudex and sculptural branching are part of its appeal. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches or to shape young plants. Cutting back encourages branching but removes the existing flower buds, so prune selectively. Sap is toxic — wear gloves.

Make clean cuts back to a node or branch junction using sterilized sharp pruners. Allow the cut to callous in the open air for a day before watering. Wear gloves to avoid the toxic sap.