This information is provided as a free service to viewers. We do not sell these plants.
Overview
Nerium oleander dwarf is a bushy, evergreen shrub that grows thickly and quickly in almost any conditions to about 1.5m in height - but is poisonous (if eaten in sufficient quantities).
It has long, slim leaves (similar to the Olive tree) and bright, star-shaped, open flowers in an assortment of colours.
Its dense bushy fast-growing nature lends itself well to low hedging though they are often grown in large pots and tubs where you can enjoy their colour up close on a patio.
New dwarf cultivars are arriving on the market with more regularity these days and are proving to be popular amongst those with limited space where the full sized plant would be impractical.
Soil: Oleander will grow in almost any conditions - they are one of the most adaptable in general cultivation.
They can withstand dry or drought conditions but prefer regular access to moisture for best results.
The ideal is well drained soils with plenty of added organic matter and a layer of mulch.
Choose a sunny location, though a little shade is well tolerated throughout the day.
Maintenance: Little maintenance is required apart from a light pruning after flowering to keep it tidy.
These dwarf varieties naturally keep themselves neat.
Diseases: None of note
Toxicity: All parts of this plant are toxic and deaths have been reported from significant ingestions - though rare.
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy and dizziness.
Delayed effects include slow heart beat, seizures and coma.
The flower perfume may cause respiratory irritation and skin contact with the sap may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
It's poisonous contents being glycocytes means that animals won't touch it - but it takes large quantities to poison humans - and it tastes so awful you'd have to be determined or raving mad!
There are no recorded cases of serious poisoning for humans.
Other Species: 2 species in the Nerium genus.
Comments: Take cuttings and place in a jar of water to see new roots grow before potting.
Author: Bob Saunders.