Oleander (Nerium oleander)
Oleander is a hardy, evergreen shrub or small tree with dense foliage and striking, colorful blooms. It is native to the Mediterranean region. It typically grows between 6 to 20 feet (1.8 to 6 meters) tall, though it can reach heights of up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) under ideal conditions. Oleander features long, lance-shaped leaves that are dark green, leathery, and glossy. The plant produces clusters of large, showy flowers in shades of white, pink, red, or yellow. It blooms from late spring through fall.
Oleander thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of well-drained soils. It has excellent drought tolerance and often grows in areas with hot, dry climates. However, all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, making it a serious concern for households with children or pets. Despite its toxicity, people love to use it in ornamental landscaping due to its beauty and resilience. It also serves as a natural windbreak or privacy hedge in gardens and parks.
Taxonomic Classification Table for Oleander
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Nerium |
| Scientific Name | Nerium oleander |
Quick Information
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Identification | Height: 6 to 20 feet (1.8 to 6 meters), up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in optimal conditions Leaves: Lance-shaped, dark green, leathery, and glossy Stem: Woody and branching Flowers: Large, showy clusters of flowers in white, pink, red, or yellow, blooming from late spring through fall Roots: Deep and fibrous root system Growth Habit: Dense, upright growth with spreading branches Crown: Rounded, bushy |
| Distribution | Native to the Mediterranean region, cultivated worldwide in warm climates |
| Habitat | Grows in dry, well-drained soils, commonly found in gardens, along roadsides, and in parks |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8 through 10 |
| Growth Rate | Fast; grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) per year |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial, can live for several decades |
| Growing Conditions | Sunlight: Full sun Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils Water: Low water needs, drought-tolerant |
| Drought Tolerance | High; thrives in hot, dry climates |
| Diseases | Susceptible to fungal infections and bacterial leaf scorch |
| Pests | Can be affected by aphids, scale insects, and mealybugs |
| Reproductive System | Produces seed pods; also propagates through cuttings |
| Propagation | Through seeds and cuttings |
| Wildlife Value | Not typically browsed by animals due to its toxicity |
| Uses | Ornamental plant, windbreak, privacy hedge, erosion control |
| IUCN Conservation Status | Not currently listed as threatened |
