Yellow Oleander
thevetia neriifolia
Also known as: ["Cascabela thevetia","Lucky Bean","Lucky Nut"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to Mexico and Central America, known for its showy yellow flowers and toxic seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Thevetia |
| Botanical Name: | Thevetia neriifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in bright, sunny location
- 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
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 the plant if 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 to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is not feasible.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for sunburn.
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).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds for outdoor planting; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to frost.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lockout; apply after watering to reduce root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable 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 the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a 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
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools afterward.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThevetia neriifolia poses a significant toxic risk to cats. The cardiac glycosides present in the plant can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal toxicity, leading to life-threatening conditions. Cats are particularly sensitive to these toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThevetia neriifolia is highly toxic to dogs due to its cardiac glycoside content. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac arrhythmias, gastrointestinal upset, and potentially fatal outcomes. The toxins disrupt normal heart function and electrolyte balance.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThevetia neriifolia contains cardiac glycosides, primarily thevetin A and B, which interfere with sodium-potassium pumps in cell membranes, leading to severe cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disturbances. The toxins are potent and can cause life-threatening conditions if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thevetia neriifolia safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Thevetia neriifolia require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can the seeds of Thevetia neriifolia be used for anything?
A: The seeds are highly toxic and should not be ingested or handled without caution.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
