An extremely tough, heat- and drought-proof shrub flowering all summer in pink, white or red. Ideal for hot, dry and coastal screens, but every part is highly toxic to people and animals.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Oleander
Nerium oleander is a fast-growing shrub in the Apocynaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink, white and red flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Oleander
Oleander suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean, subtropical and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Oleander does best in free-draining, poor and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Oleander is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Oleander after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Oleander in the garden
Oleander earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a windbreak and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Oleander with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Oleander
Plant Sale lists Oleander as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.