Species oleander
cluster of pink, funnel-shaped flowers with deep-red sepals, green stems, and lanceolate, dark-green, smooth leaves

oleander

Nerium oleander

Also Known As - rose bay
Oleander (Nerium oleander) is an evergreen shrub native to North Africa, the Middle East and Southwestern Asia. It bears clusters of beautiful, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, white, red and yellow. The flowers can be single, double or variegated. Oleander is an adaptable species and can be grown in most soil types and climates. It tolerant of drought and wind, and can be planted near oceans and salt spray. It requires minimal maintenance and can be pruned and trained as needed. Oleander is known for its toxicity and should be handled carefully.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Purple, pink or white Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Humus rich, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

High

watering

Oleander (Nerium oleander) should be watered twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. The key is to not overwater the plant; be sure the soil is completely dry before watering again. During winter months, the watering needs may be less frequent since there is less evaporation, so monitor the soil moisture and only water when the soil appears dry.

sunlight

Oleander (Nerium oleander) plants grow best when they are exposed to full sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours every day. Since oleander plants thrive in warmer climates, they should be placed in an area exposed to full sun to get the most benefit.

pruning

Oleanders should be pruned twice a year, once in the spring (March or April in most climates) and again in the summer (July or August). You should prune off dead and spent flower stalks, as well as cut out any dead wood or rubbing branches. Aim to remove up to 1-third of the overall size of the oleander each time you prune. This will help to open up the plant and increase air circulation, which can reduce possible disease issues.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Nerium oleander is typically in the late summer and early fall months, from August to October.

Starts Flowering

Oleander typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Oleander typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Nerium oleander is typically in the late summer and early fall months, from August to October.

Hardiness Map