Oleander (Nerium oleander)

Also known as: Nerium

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a shrub or small tree renowned for its stunning pink flowers with five lobes and deep green, lance-shaped leaves. Despite its beauty, oleander is highly toxic and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Oleander

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Height

2 m to 6 m

Spread

1.8 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Red Pink Yellow Orange Cream Purple

Images of Oleander

Quickly Identify Oleander

Oppositely arranged or whorled linear-lanceolate leaves, 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) long.

Terminal clusters of 5-petaled flowers in various colors, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) across.

Slender pair of green follicles, 5-7 inches (12.7-17.8 cm) long, with smooth surface.

Sturdy, cane-like stems with thick, glossy green twigs, reaching 6-12 feet (1.8-3.6 meters).

Sticky sap exuded by damaged stems enhances identification of the plant.

Scientific Classification of Oleander

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Nerium

Species

Oleander

Planting and Growing of Oleander

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Oleander?

When watering Nerium oleander, aim for about 500 milliliters per session. Ensure the water penetrates the root zone without causing excess runoff. The goal is to moisten the soil until it's damp but not soggy, mimicking a natural rainfall event.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Oleander?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Nerium oleander's ideal light range is full sun to partial sun. Providing the right balance of light helps the plant reach its full potential, ensuring lush foliage and prolific flowering.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Oleander?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 80℉

Nerium oleander thrives in warm climates, with an ideal temperature range between 60°F and 80°F. This range allows for optimal growth and blooming, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant flowers. Temperatures within this bracket ensure the plant receives adequate heat to carry out essential biological processes while avoiding stress factors related to cold or extreme heat.

What Soil is Best for Oleander?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Oleanders thrive in well-drained soil as it prevents waterlogging. This characteristic is crucial for avoiding root rot and ensuring the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen. The plant benefits from a nutrient-rich environment, which supports lush foliage and vibrant blooms. Incorporating organic matter can boost the soil's fertility. Oleander requires a balance in soil fertility—neither too rich nor too poor. This balance facilitates robust growth while minimizing the risk of diseases associated with nutrient imbalances. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Oleander?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Nerium oleander is a robust plant, preferring balanced fertilizer. Apply about 1/2 teaspoon of liquid fertilizer per gallon of water. For solid fertilizer, use a slow-release type, applying about a tablespoon per plant. It's crucial to ensure the ground is moist before application to avoid root burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Oleander?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches at their base. Focus on maintaining an open center to allow sunlight and air circulation. Regular pruning encourages dense growth and vibrant blooms. To control the size and shape, prune back to a lateral bud or branch junction. This not only controls the height and spread but also enhances flowering by stimulating new growth points. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Oleander plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Late spring,Summer

Choose a healthy oleander plant with no signs of disease or pest infestations. The healthier the parent plant, the more likely the cutting will successfully root.

Cut a 6-8 inch stem from a non-flowering shoot. Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting to reduce water loss and make it easier to plant.

Dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil, burying it about 2-3 inches deep. Water thoroughly after planting.

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How to Repot Oleander plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Signs that Nerium oleander needs repotting include roots circling the pot, slowed growth, or a lack of blooming. The best time to repot is in early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not extremely stressed by heat.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring adequate drainage holes. Pots made from materials like terracotta offer breathability, benefiting oleander roots by preventing waterlogging and root rot.

A well-draining potting mix is essential for oleanders. Choose a mix that includes sand or perlite to enhance drainage. A good soil ensures the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen, preventing diseases associated with overly wet conditions.

Toxicity of Oleander

Is Oleander toxic to humans?

Oleander is known to possess moderate to high levels of toxicity for humans. In cases of ingestion or contact with the sap of this plant, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Although instances of fatal oleander poisoning are quite rare, they can still occur. Every part of the oleander plant is toxic when consumed. Contact with the sap, which can be present throughout the plant and is more likely to occur if the plant is pruned or injured, can lead to skin reactions such as redness and itching. Symptoms that may arise from ingestion include low blood pressure, fatigue, erratic heart rhythms, blurred vision, confusion, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, and, in severe instances, death. It is essential to keep an eye on inquisitive children, as oleanders are commonly found as decorative plants in gardens and public parks globally.

Is Oleander toxic to cat?

The oleander (Nerium oleander) contains elevated levels of cardiac glycosides, rendering all its parts highly poisonous to cats. These glycosides have a direct impact on the heart, occasionally hindering its proper functioning. Fatal outcomes are possible, and immediate veterinary attention is critical if a cat consumes any portion of this plant.

Is Oleander toxic to dog?

Nerium oleander is extremely poisonous to dogs and can lead to death if consumed; treat any suspicion of ingestion by your dog as a medical emergency, as every part of this plant is toxic. Signs of poisoning may include a rapid heart rate and diarrhea. Prompt veterinary assistance is essential.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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