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Nerium oleander, commonly known as oleander, is a shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region. It can grow up to 2–6 meters tall and has spreading to erect branches. The leaves are thick and leathery, dark green in color, and grow in pairs or whorls of three. The flowers, which are white, pink, red, or yellow, grow in clusters at the end of each branch and have a deeply 5-lobed corolla with a fringe around the central corolla tube. The fruit is a long narrow capsule that splits open at maturity to release numerous downy seeds.

Oleander is a versatile plant that can be used for informal hedging in the Mediterranean. It is an upright bush with evergreen leaves and produces five-petaled, highly fragrant flowers at the tips of its branches throughout the year in hot areas. It can tolerate wind, salt, and poor soil conditions. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic.

The origins of the name Nerium oleander are disputed, but it is believed to be derived from the Greek word for water, 'neros', due to its natural habitat along rivers and streams. Oleander is one of the most poisonous commonly grown garden plants.

In terms of cultivation, oleander is planted in many subtropical and tropical areas of the world. It can also be grown in mild oceanic climates with the appropriate precautions. The plant is deer-resistant and can tolerate poor soils, intense heat, salt spray, and sustained drought. Regular water will promote more vigorous growth and flowering. Pruning mature shrubs in autumn can help shape the plant and encourage new growth and flowering for the following spring. Oleander blooms from April through October in Mediterranean climates.

In ornamental gardening, oleander is commonly used as an ornamental plant in parks, along roadsides, and in private gardens. It is often grown in its natural shrub form or trained into a small tree. It is a good windbreak and can tolerate occasional light frost. There are different colors and varieties of oleander available, such as white, red, and pink. In cold winter climates, oleander can be grown as a potted plant during the summer and moved indoors during winter to go dormant.

Overall, oleander is a beautiful and versatile plant, but it is important to be aware of its toxic properties and handle it with caution.