Nerium oleander cv "LOREDANA" DARK PINK 30-60cm

Nerium oleander, commonly known as Oleander, is a beautiful and evergreen shrub that hails from the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. This popular ornamental plant is admired for its striking, leathery leaves and abundant, fragrant blossoms that come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, and salmon. Oleander typically grows as a multi-branched shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 6 to 20 feet (1.8 to 6 meters), making it a favored choice for gardens, hedges, and coastal landscapes.

The leaves of Nerium oleander are lance-shaped, dark green, and arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The most captivating feature of this plant is its showy, funnel-shaped flowers that appear in clusters from late spring through early fall. These flowers can be single or double-petaled, depending on the variety, and emit a sweet, honey-like fragrance that attracts pollinators. The blossoms are followed by long, narrow seed pods that contain numerous seeds.

Cultivation:

1. Sunlight: Oleanders thrive in full sun. Plant them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming.

2. Soil: Well-draining, loamy soil with good organic content is ideal. Oleanders are adaptable to various soil types but prefer slightly alkaline to neutral soil pH.

3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the shrub's establishment period. Provide deep, regular watering during dry spells. Once established, they can tolerate some drought, but prefer evenly moist soil.

4. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch (5-8 cm) layer of organic mulch around the base of the shrub to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.

5. Pruning: Prune Nerium oleander as needed to maintain the desired shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth. Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

6. Fertilization: Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to excessive foliage growth.

7. Protection from Cold: Oleanders are sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. In colder regions, provide protection from freezing conditions by covering the shrub or bringing it indoors.

8. Pests and Disease: Watch for common garden pests like aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Oleanders can also be susceptible to a bacterial disease known as oleander leaf scorch. Use appropriate pest control measures and maintain good plant hygiene.

9. Propagation: Propagate through hardwood cuttings in late autumn or early winter, or from seeds.

Nerium oleander is a stunning and resilient plant that adds beauty to gardens and landscapes. By following these cultivation tips and providing the right conditions, you can enjoy the vibrant blossoms and lush foliage of Oleander in your outdoor space. Keep in mind that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so exercise caution if planting in areas accessible to pets or children.

IMPORTANT: Please be aware that picture 1 show adult plant not for sale, the offer is for a plant in the dimension indicated in title description like the one shown in pictures 2-3.