Nerium Oleander Care
The Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a flowering outdoor plant that shows colourful blooms from June well into autumn. Please note: every part of this Mediterranean garden plant is toxic, and it isn't winter hardy in our climate. We're happy to explain everything about its care and safe overwintering.
Nerium Oleander care
Oleander care tips at a glance
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Outdoor plant delivered in nursery pot | |
| Botanical name | Nerium oleander | |
| Location | Full sun | |
| Water requirements | Approximately 2-3 times per week | |
| Toxic | Toxic if ingested | |
| Winter hardiness | Not winter hardy, overwinter frost-free (5-10°C) | |
| Maintenance | Medium |
“For centuries, the Oleander (Nerium oleander) has lined Mediterranean roads and squares, where the shrub keeps on blooming despite heat and drought. A true sun worshipper with a surprisingly toxic side: gorgeous to look at, best handled with care.”
Frequently asked questions about the Nerium Oleander
Quick answers to the most common questions about toxicity, winter hardiness, watering and pruning.
Is Oleander toxic to children and pets?
Yes, the Oleander (Nerium oleander) is one of the most toxic garden plants you can come across. Every part of the plant contains toxins, from flowers and leaves to stems and even the sap. If ingested, this can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and irregular heartbeat in children and pets. Always place the plant out of reach of young children and pets, and wash your hands thoroughly after pruning. If ingestion is suspected, we recommend contacting a doctor or vet immediately.
Is the Oleander winter hardy?
No, the Oleander isn't winter hardy in our climate. The plant can sometimes survive light frost down to around -5°C if it's well sheltered and wrapped up, but it will freeze to death in prolonged or harder frost. It's best to bring your Oleander indoors frost-free as soon as the nights turn colder.
How do I overwinter my Oleander?
From autumn, before the first night frost is expected, place the Oleander in a bright, frost-free spot at around 5 to 10°C, such as a greenhouse, garage or unheated room. Water much less in winter and don't feed at all. Live in a mild coastal region and can't bring the plant indoors? Then protect the crown and pot well with garden fleece or a winter cover.
How much water does the Oleander need?
During the growing season (April to October), the Oleander loves regular watering, on average 2 to 3 times a week, especially in a pot. Let the top layer of soil dry out slightly between waterings and avoid standing water in the saucer. In winter, during the dormant period, the plant needs much less water.
When and how do I prune my Oleander?
Remove spent flower clusters after flowering, this gives the plant energy for new blooms. For firm shape pruning, spring, just before the new growing season, is the best time. Always wear garden gloves when pruning: the Oleander's sap is toxic and can cause irritation on skin contact.
Why isn't my Oleander flowering, or only sparsely?
An Oleander that isn't flowering is usually in too much shade: the plant needs at least 6 hours of full sun a day for rich blooms. A lack of flowering feed during the growing season or too large a pot (causing the plant to focus on roots rather than blooms) can also be the cause. Give the plant a sunny spot and feed it regularly for the best result.
How fast does an Oleander grow, and how big does it get?
The Oleander grows fairly quickly, averaging 30 to 50 centimetres a year, and can eventually reach 2 to 4 metres tall in the ground in milder climates. In a pot, the shrub naturally stays more compact due to the limited room for roots.
