This small genus belongs to the dogbane family and consists of only 2 species of long-flowering evergreen shrubs native to the area from southwestern Asia across to China. The leaves are simple, smooth-edged, narrow, and lance-shaped, providing a background for the attractive flowers that range in color from white and pale pink to red. The numerous cultivars further broaden the color spectrum. Appearing in clusters, the flowers are made up of 5 broad petals that are fused into a narrow tube at one end and flare open at the other into a disc or a shallow cup. Nerium plants are very beautiful garden subjects but are also extremely poisonous; care is needed when working with them in the garden.
CULTIVATION
Plant in almost any type of soil, except wet, in full sun. They will tolerate light frosts if grown in a sheltered position. Well-established plants may be pruned quite severely in winter, about once every 3 years, to maintain their shape. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings taken in autumn or from seed in spring.
Top Tip
Although they are extremely hardy plants in mild climates, in cooler areas Nerium oleander and its cultivars need to be overwintered indoors as they are not cold-hardy.
CULTIVATION
Plant in almost any type of soil, except wet, in full sun. They will tolerate light frosts if grown in a sheltered position. Well-established plants may be pruned quite severely in winter, about once every 3 years, to maintain their shape. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings taken in autumn or from seed in spring.
Top Tip
Although they are extremely hardy plants in mild climates, in cooler areas Nerium oleander and its cultivars need to be overwintered indoors as they are not cold-hardy.
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