Pink Oleanders (Nerium oleander)
Pink Oleander are distinctive and beautiful large, flowering shrubs that thrive with little care. They are very heat- and drought-tolerant once established, and will grow especially well in seaside gardens, tolerating salt spray and wind.
Oleander will grow 8 to 12 feet tall and almost as wide as they are tall. In some protected areas mature plants may reach up to 20 feet tall. There are some dwarf cultivars that can stay as low as 3 to 5 feet. Oleanders grow at a medium to rapid pace, producing 1 to 2 feet or more of growth per year. Established plants that have been damaged by cold will regrow very quickly from the base. Oleanders are usually very large, mounded shrubs that take up considerable space in the landscape. Their quick growth rate and thick multi-stemmed habit makes them ideal for use as a screen or informal hedge. The flower are from early summer until mid-autumn with large clusters of 2-inch single or double blossoms. Colors range from white through yellow, peach, salmon and pink to deep burgundy red. Some varieties (mostly doubles) are fragrant.
The leaves are smooth, dark green, thick and leathery. They are long and narrow, usually between 4 and 6 inches long and an inch or less wide. The dwarf cultivars also have smaller leaves. Leaves generally grow in whorls.
They grow best in full sun and will tolerate even reflected heat from a south or west wall. They will tolerate partial shade, but may have a lanky, open shape.
Oleanders are tolerant of many different soil types, but must have good drainage. They will not do well in wet areas. They are very drought-tolerant once established, but respond well to occasional deep watering.