Hardy and durable, this Florida favorite is an excellent plant to use as a hedge or to dress up a bare wall or fence. It is best used as a background plant away from the home since some varieties tend to get rather tall and bushy. Oleander has thin lance-like leaves and flowers during the year, but especially during the summer. It comes in a variety of colors, including bright white and deep crimson. This robust plant will thrive in a range of soil conditions, and it can even tolerate some sea spray. Since it somewhat drought tolerant and salt tolerant, it makes the ideal plant to use in beachside gardens. Prune back this tropical in the fall to keep it a manageable size and encourage flowering.
Oleander likes direct light but can tolerate some shade during the hottest parts of the day. Water the plant regularly when planted. After established the plant does not need much water, only in times of extreme drought. Fertilize it with a well-balanced fertilizer three times a year starting in the spring, and then again later in the summer and fall.
Some of our favorites: Oleander ‘Calypso Pink,’ Oleander ‘Petite Pink,’ Oleander ‘Red’
Note: All portions of this plant are very toxic if ingested. Plant away from the home where curious children and pets might roam.
FAST FACTS
Outstanding Features: Hardy and drought-tolerant, makes an excellent hedge
 | Common Names | Oleander |  | Scientific Name | Nerium Oleander |
 | Bloom colors | Pink and crimson |  | Light | Direct sunlight, can tolerate some shade |
 | Water | Water daily when planted in the landscape until established. |  | Size | Depends on variety, check the care tag for specifics |
 | Zone | 9a-11 |  | Overwintering | Does not overwinter |
 | Fertilizer | Feed 3 times a year with a well-balanced fertilizer |  | Companion plants | Plumbago, duranta, mandevilla |