Why a Young Ocotillo Has Flowers But No Leaves

Ocotillo planted July 2009 in Tucson, sprayed every 5 days, no drip. Rainy February, but no leaves—only 6 red flowers on green stems. Young ocotillos can flower leafless; roots are deep and water-limited. First year: weekly water in heat, every 2–3 weeks in cool, plus spraying, until established (~1 year). Blooming ≠ established. Green, flowering, pliable stems = healthy. Give it time. Tucson Cactus & Succulent Society is a great local resource.