This beautiful flowering shrub is famous for its vibrant blossoms and its ability to thrive in warm, sunny climates. Despite its beauty, it’s important to remember that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Oleander is a stunning addition to gardens, especially for those looking for hardy, low-maintenance plants.
Growing oleander is simple, and with its colorful flowers and evergreen leaves, it’s a perfect pick for creating a lively, tropical vibe in your garden.
Popular Oleander Varieties

Care
- Water: Oleanders are drought-tolerant, but they grow best with regular watering, especially in hot weather. Just don’t overdo it—let the soil dry between waterings to avoid soggy roots.
- Light: Oleander loves sunshine, so plant it where it can get plenty of bright light. At least six hours of direct sun daily will help it bloom its best.
- Soil: Oleander prefers well-draining soil. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or even poor soil, as long as water doesn’t sit at the roots.
- Temperature and Humidity: Oleander enjoys warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) but can handle brief cold snaps. It’s perfect for hot, dry climates but may need protection from frost in cooler regions.
Planting & Growing
Oleander is a warm-weather shrub, so plant it after the last frost. You can grow it from cuttings or young plants bought at a nursery. Space them about 6-10 feet apart, since they grow fast and can get big. Make sure to plant them in a sunny spot with well-drained soil for the best growth.
If you’re looking to propagate oleander, it’s easy to do with stem cuttings—but be careful, as the plant is toxic. Wear gloves, remove most of the leaves, and place the cutting in soil. In a few weeks, your new plant should take root.
Pruning
Pruning isn’t necessary for oleanders to stay healthy, but it helps control their size and keep them looking neat. The best time to prune is in late summer or early fall, right after the blooming season, so you don’t cut off any flowers. Make sure to trim before October to avoid frost damage to the fresh cuts. You can snip away dead or overgrown branches, shaping the plant as needed to help it grow stronger and fuller.
For more detailed tips and techniques, check out our full guide on pruning oleander below.
Common Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
Does oleander grow fast?
Oleanders grow pretty quickly, adding 1 to 2 feet each year. If damaged by cold, they can bounce back fast from the base.
How to make oleanders grow faster?
Trim away dead or crowded branches and cut back flowered shoots to encourage bushy growth. If your oleander is in a pot, repot it each spring into a slightly bigger container.
How to maintain oleander plants?
Oleanders bloom on new growth, so deadhead flowers to help new ones form. Prune in the fall and remove any dead branches to keep the plant healthy.
Can you overwater oleanders?
Oleanders are drought-tolerant, but a bit of water during hot, dry periods will help them thrive. However, overwatering them can cause root rot.
Are oleanders poisonous to touch?
Eating any part of the oleander is dangerous, and even touching the sap can cause a rash. Always be careful when handling it to avoid serious side effects.