Oleander

Oleander is a strong, upright shrub with narrow leaves and clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that bloom for most of the year. It is well known across the Gulf region for handling heat, wind, and even a little salt in the soil or air.

It comes in a 25cm pot and grows 70 to 90cm tall, and it is often used as a hedge or screening plant along garden walls and roadsides in the UAE, since it needs very little attention once it settles in.

Water it once or twice a week until it is established, then it can manage on much less. Note that its leaves and sap are toxic if eaten, so plant it a little out of reach if you have small children or pets at home.

Plant Information

• Botanical Name: Nerium oleander
• Local Name: Defla
• Family: Apocynaceae
• Average Size: 2m to 4m (full grown)
• Native To: Mediterranean region to East Asia
• Environment: Outdoor, full sun
• Climate: Mediterranean, heat and drought tolerant