Oleander

nerium oleander

Also known as: ["Rosebay","La adelfa"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Nerium Category: Shrubs

Overview

A highly toxic evergreen shrub known for its showy flowers and toxic sap.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Nerium
Botanical Name: Nerium oleander

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or large container in a sunny location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C, tolerates brief dips to 10°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil; a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil), leaf drop (temperature stress or root issues).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

Moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is essential for blooms; rotate plant for even growth; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam or loamy soil

pH: 6.0–8.0 (slightly acidic to alkaline).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates heat well but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).

Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize before new growth starts; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; water thoroughly after fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); can also be propagated by layering or division (less common).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite or sand with peat or coco coir.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage branching; remove crossing or crowded stems.

Pruning Plan

Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering to preserve blooms.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).

Checklist

Disinfect tools, prune after flowering, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and place in shade for a few days.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Choose right pot size, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, adjust care temporarily.

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; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for even moisture distribution and reduced water waste.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of gravel in the bottom of pots for extra drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or leaf scorch in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch to protect roots; avoid pruning in late fall to prevent frost damage.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaf edges may scorch or curl; reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves in the morning to cool the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type, apply at correct rate, water after application, adjust for season.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; repeat every 6–8 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Nerium oleander may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or scale insects. It can also result from environmental stress, including excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Nerium oleander is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering. Root damage from pests or pathogens can also impair water uptake, leading to wilting despite adequate soil moisture.

Leaf spots on Nerium oleander are typically caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora or Alternaria. These spots can lead to defoliation if severe, weakening the plant and reducing its aesthetic value.

Rotting in Nerium oleander, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Phytophthora or Fusarium in waterlogged soils. This can lead to plant decline and death if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Oleander is extremely toxic to cats, with cardiac glycosides causing life-threatening cardiac and gastrointestinal effects. Cats are highly sensitive to these compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness abnormal heart rate difficulty breathing seizures collapse death
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure oleander plants are inaccessible to cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Dogs
Toxic

Oleander is highly toxic to dogs, with cardiac glycosides causing severe cardiac dysfunction, gastrointestinal upset, and neurological effects. Even small amounts can be fatal.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness abnormal heart rate difficulty breathing seizures collapse death
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep oleander plants away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Nerium oleander contains cardiac glycosides, primarily oleandrin and neriine, which disrupt cardiac function and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disturbances, potentially resulting in fatal arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness irregular heartbeat low blood pressure difficulty breathing seizures death
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Strictly avoid ingestion. Keep plants out of reach of children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is oleander safe for pets?

A: No, oleander is highly toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets.

Q: Can oleander be grown indoors?

A: Oleander can be grown indoors in warm climates but requires bright light and good air circulation.

Q: How often should oleander be watered?

A: Oleander is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–14 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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