Yellow oleander
thevetia peruviana
Also known as: ["Cascabela peruviana","Yellow oleander","Lucky nut"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to Central and South America, known for its showy yellow flowers and highly toxic seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Thevetia |
| Botanical Name: | Thevetia peruviana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor pot in bright, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if plant is overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure bright light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, remove dead/diseased growth, and control size.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may drop flowers or buds in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThevetia peruviana is highly toxic to cats, with cardenolides causing severe cardiac and gastrointestinal toxicity. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac failure and electrolyte disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThevetia peruviana is highly toxic to dogs due to its cardenolide content. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal issues, with potential for fatal outcomes if not treated promptly. The toxins disrupt normal cardiac function and can cause electrolyte imbalances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThevetia peruviana contains cardenolides, which are toxic glycosides that can cause severe physiological effects, including cardiac toxicity and gastrointestinal distress. The toxins interfere with ion transport in cardiac muscle cells, leading to arrhythmias and potential heart failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thevetia peruviana safe for pets?
A: No, all parts of the plant are highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why are the seeds of Thevetia peruviana dangerous?
A: The seeds contain cardiac glycosides that can be fatal if ingested.
Q: How should I care for a Thevetia peruviana plant?
A: Provide full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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