Oleander (Nerium Oleander)

Oleander is a large fast growing evergreen shrub, native to Asia and the Mediterranean region. This plant with glossy, 4 to 10 inch long narrow dark green leaves and funnel-shaped flower clusters, single or double can reach 3 to 20 feet tall. There are different varieties with varying heights and flowers in some varieties are delightfully fragrant. This dense plant which flowers abcan be used as borders, hedges, backgrounds and tall screens. Dwarf varieties are suitable for container gardens.

Oleander is an easy growing plant in most conditions, especially in dry warm climates. It grows well in average, medium wet soils in full sun to part shade. The shrub can be trained or pruned to a single or multi stemmed tree.

Propagation is through vegetative cuttings. This species commonly produces many side shoots which can be replanted in their own pots in a standard mix of well drained sand and peat. In the ground, the plant can be spaced 5-9feet apart depending on its variety. When in growth water often and allow plants to remain moist. When not actively growing, water plants sparingly and allow to dry out between watering. Yellowing of new leaves indicates over watering. Fertilize regularly during the growing period. 

Prune the tips of young plants to help stimulate the production of new branches and prune grown plants to control size and shape. Promptly deadhead spent blooms to prevent formation of non-ornamental seed pods. No serious insect or disease problems. Aphids, mites, bacterial gall and scale may be a problem. Black deformed flowers, splitting branches etc are the symptoms. Infected parts of plant must be cut away and disinfected with a solution of equal mix of bleach and water. Remove and destroy any leaves damaged by leaf spot. Caterpillars may chew on the foliage.

Oleanders have a tendency to become leggy and should be pruned as needed to maintain a nice shape. By removing suckers at the base of the plant, and leaving just a few stems, oleander can be formed into very attractive small trees.