Expert: Maureen - 4/5/2010

Question
Had ocotillo planted July, 2009.  I sprayed it every 5 days as instructed.  Not on drip system.  Understand it should have had leaves because we had a lot of rain in February (Tucson, AZ). (I did not spray if it rained).  Also understand it should flower now.  Well, it does not have one leaf, but there were about 6 red flowers.  Branches are mostly green.  

Any idea why no leaves, but some flowers.  Can I expect leaves this year at all?

Answer
I am assuming this is a young plant. Ocotillos can produce flowers without leaves and it's great that your young  plant has some.  It can be leafless for along time because because the roots are deep and do not get much water.  For the first year in addition to spraying, it's good to water it once a week in hot months and once every two or three weeks when it's cooler until the plant is established which takes about a year or so. After that it usually doesn't need supplemental water because it does absorb much of it's water through the stems. It may bloom during that time but that doesn't mean it's established yet.  From what you describe your plant seems healthy. I'd give it more time.  
As long as it is green and getting flowers I wouldn't worry about it.  Eventually it will get leaves and hopefully lots of hummingbirds. If you are worried about some of the branches, gently bend them. If they are pliable they should be fine.

The flowers are just beautiful.

Tucson has an cactus and succulent society and I got some of my info from them, especially watering during the first year because other sources said to just mist and that didn't make much sense to me for a new plant.  I am sure they're much more knowledgeable if you have any other questions and happy to answer them.  I'd be happy to research further as well.

Maureen