Family: Apocynaceae
Common Name: Oleander

This genus comprises only one species, an evergreen shrub which will grow almost anywhere (except in cold climates) and tolerates a range of conditions from hot semi-arid to coastal, providing it has sun for most of the day. It is toxic to both animals and human beings if ingested. Oleanders are widely grown for their attractive flowers in single or double form in white, pink, cream and red, through summer and autumn. They have leathery, dark green, spear-shaped leaves.

Species

N. oleander, native to the Mediterr­anean and western China, produces deep pink to white flowers. It generally grows to a height and width of about 3 m (10 ft). The many cultivars offer variegated foliage, single or double flowers, and colours ranging from white to salmon, pale and deep pink, cerise and crimson. There are also some good dwarf forms available.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost in a cool, airy greenhouse or conservatory. Plants can be stood outside for the summer. These shrubs are perfect for harsh conditions as they will withstand long periods of drought in inland areas and also provide effective windbreaks in coastal gardens. Prune fairly heavily in early winter and remove all straggly canes. They can be grown quite successfully as small standards by allowing only one main stem to develop as
a trunk and removing all side growth. Propagate from cuttings of top shoots, about 8 cm (3 in) long, taken in late summer and autumn.

Climate

Zone 9.