Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a flowering shrub or small tree that yields ornamental blooms year-round, peaking in the summer. It produces white, red, or pink five-petaled flowers that grow in clusters at the end of each branch, usually with a delightful scent. As it grows up to 20 feet tall, it is an ideal option for the back of gardens. In addition to its beauty, Oleander was a favorite of Van Gogh and often featured in his artwork. The name Nerium is derived from the Greek word ‘neros’, meaning water, as early cultivators of this flower believed it to be a water lily. The genus name ‘oleander’ is likely derived from the Greek word for olive tree.
How to Plant
When planting Oleander, it is important to ensure that it gets plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Though it tolerates a range of soil types, it prefers acidic or neutral soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. It performs best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade as long as it receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ensure that the soil is moist but well-drained, and occasionally mist the plant with water to maintain a humid environment. Fertilize Oleander annually with a balanced fertilizer in the late winter or early spring, and prune the bushes regularly to encourage new growth. When planting in an outdoor pot, be sure to use a container with a drainage hole. In colder climates, it’s best to move Oleander indoors at least a month before temperatures drop below 12°C/54°F.
Meaning and Symbolism
Oleander has been linked to romance and relationship luck for over two centuries, and for this reason, it makes a wonderful gift to someone you are fond of. In Ancient Rome, it was a symbol of love and eternal friendship. In Greek Mythology, Apollo gave a True Love Oleander twig to Zephyr as a sign of undying love. In some parts of the world, Oleander is associated with bad luck and danger, and is used as a hedge of protection against negative energy or evil spirits.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Oleander has a long and fascinating history and has been mentioned in the writings of Homer and Virgil. It has been used in traditional medicine and ceremonies since ancient times. In Ancient Egypt, Oleander was an invasive species, but it was also found in the famous gardens of Cleopatra. It was used in perfumes and sacred medicine of Persia and India, and was a symbol of victory in Ancient Rome. Throughout the Mediterranean, it was used for funeral ceremonies, and in China it became a symbol of balance and safe passage through the afterlife. In Christianity, it was used for centuries as an Easter decoration, likely due to its association with love and friendship.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
Oleander comes in an array of colors and types, with the most popular variety being the red Oleander. Other popular varieties include white oleander, blush oleander, double oleander, bleu oleander, and everblooming oleander. The red Oleander is a flowering shrub with glossy green leaves and deep red flowers. It has a fast growth rate and is ideal for hedges and container gardens. The white Oleander is a smaller variety with slender stems and white flowers. It is a slow grower and prefers low light. The blush Oleander is known for its exquisite pink flowers with yellow centers and is a popular choice for perfumes, teas, and beauty products. The double Oleander has large double-bloomed flowers with densely petalled blooms, and the bleu Oleander is often referred to as the cold-loving Oleander, as it can withstand temperatures lower than other varieties.
How to Pot and Repot
When potting Oleander, it’s important to use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes. Select a container that is not too large, as Oleander will grow quickly and can become root-bound. Water the plant well when you initially pot it and ensure that it drains properly. Be sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but not wet, and make sure to select a spot with good air circulation. If your Oleander requires repotting, select a pot just a few inches larger than the existing one and carefully replant the foliage in the new soil. Be sure to water the plant after repotting and keep the soil consistently watered in order for the plant to thrive.
How to Prune
Pruning Oleander is essential for optimal growth and for encouraging denser and fuller blooms. Prune in the early spring, just after the Oleander wakes up from dormancy. Use pruning shears to trim overgrown shoots, removing the tips to encourage new growth and to maintain a balanced shape. To create a bushier appearance, trim off the growing tips of each stem until the desired results are obtained. Prune off any faded or dead blooms or leaves, and regularly tidy and remove any leggy stems or branches.
How to Propagate
Oleander can be propagated by both seed and cutting. When propagating by seed, it’s best to sow the seeds in moist, well-draining soil and keep the soil consistently moist and warm. When propagating by cutting, select a cutting from the new growth at the tip of a stem, remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, making sure to water regularly, and roots should form in about a month.
Common Pests and Diseases
Oleander is vulnerable to pests and plant diseases, including aphids, mealy bugs, mites, leaf blight, and root rot. To protect it from pests, use a neem oil or insecticidal soap spray and apply it carefully to the undersides of the leaves. For diseases, it’s important to ensure that your Oleander gets enough sunlight, is well-watered, and is planted in well-draining soil. If signs of disease or pests appear, treat them early as this will minimize the damage and help ensure that your Oleander stays healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Is Oleander poisonous?
A) Yes, Oleander is highly toxic and should be kept away from pets and children and handled with caution.
Q) Does Oleander need a lot of sunlight?
A) Oleander prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade as long as it receives at least four hours of direct sunlight each day.
Q) How often should I water my Oleander?
A) It’s best to keep the soil consistently moist, but not wet. Water your Oleander when the top 2” (5 cm) of soil is dry and avoid overwatering, as this can result in root rot.
Fact Sheet
| Name: | Oleander and Nerium oleander |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Plant Type: | Shrub |
| Mature Size: | 6-20 feet |
| Sun Exposure: | Full Sun |
| Soil Type: | Well-drained but moist |
| Soil pH: | 5.5-7.5 |
| Bloom Time: | Spring to Autumn |
| Flower Color: | White, Red, Pink |
| Hardiness Zones: | 8 – 11 |
| Native Area: | Mediterranean and South Asia |
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