Oleander (Nerium oleander)

Oleander

Nerium oleander is a tall, upright to spreading evergreen shrub with lance‑shaped, deep green to gray‑green leaves. In summer it bears clusters of up to 80 pink, red, or white flowers. Numerous cultivars offer variations in bloom color, fragrance, size, and leaf variegation.

Key Features

• Showy, often fragrant flowers in pink, red, or white throughout summer.
• Evergreen foliage provides year‑round structure.
• Highly adaptable: tolerates heavy clay, heat, and drought once established.

Important Warning

All parts of oleander are highly toxic if ingested. Plant with caution where children or pets may access.

Growing Conditions

Full sun to partial shade; tolerates a wide range of soils including heavy clay. Water regularly during the growing season and as winter approaches. Root‑hardy to Zone 6 (possibly Zone 5). Mulch heavily (6–8 inches) in late fall with deciduous leaves to protect roots and lower stems.

Care & Propagation

Propagate from semi‑ripe cuttings in summer. Common pests include scale, spider mites, caterpillars, aphids, bacterial knot (gall), and dieback.

Landscape Uses

Used as a hedge, specimen, container plant, in beds and borders, and for naturalizing. Its size and bloom make it a striking focal point.

Quick Reference

Height	10–15 ft.
Spread	6–10 ft.
Light	Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture	Medium
Bloom Time	Summer
Flower Color	Pink, Red, White
Foliage Color	Evergreen
Type	Shrub