Discover the striking beauty and resilience of Oleander (Nerium oleander), a lush evergreen shrub originating from Europe and Asia's sun-kissed landscapes. Belonging to the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), Oleander impresses with its rapid growth, reaching heights from 5 to 19.5 feet and spans up to 10 feet in width, making it an excellent choice for garden borders or screens. Its glossy, dark green, linear-lanceolate leaves resemble those of the olive tree, adding an exotic touch to your garden.
Oleander thrives best in USDA Zones 8 to 10, growing optimally with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It displays a spectacular bloom from late spring to late summer with vibrant flowers in pink, peach, or white, each adorned with a crown-like corona. These captivating flowers are not just for show; they make Oleander a deer-resistant, drought-tolerant, and salt-tolerant option, perfect for coastal gardens.
Despite its elegance, caution is advised as all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, with sap potentially causing skin irritation. Therefore, position it away from curious children and pets. Oleander is ideal for landscaping near highways due to its resistance to heat and pollution, yet it should be carefully considered in residential gardens.
Enjoy its hassle-free maintenance by pruning lightly after flowering to maintain its shape. For cold climates, grow Oleander in containers that can be sheltered indoors, pushing boundaries of temperate zones. Despite its toxicity, with mindful placement, Oleander stands as a captivating addition to any garden, offering year-round greenery and enchanting blooms with minimal upkeep.