shrub

White Oleander

Nerium oleander 'White'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Tolerates low to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

All parts are extremely toxic if ingested; smoke from burning is also toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Nerium oleander is a fast-growing, rounded evergreen shrub or small tree known for its long blooming season, leathery lance-shaped leaves, and extreme tolerance to heat, drought, and salt. White-flowering varieties, such as 'Album' or 'Sister Agnes', offer crisp, clean blooms that stand out against the dark green foliage and provide a cooling effect in hot climates.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a massive display of flowers from summer through fall, offering bright color during the hottest part of the year. Its evergreen foliage provides a constant backdrop and screening.

Its extreme tolerance for heat, drought, poor soil, and salt spray makes it one of the most durable and widely used shrubs for difficult landscape situations, such as highway medians and coastal areas.

The flowers attract various pollinators, particularly moths. The dense shrubbery provides shelter for birds and other wildlife. However, its toxicity means it does not serve as a food source for most animals.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun.
Plant in any well-drained soil; it is highly adaptable.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant at the same depth it was in the pot.
Backfill with soil and water in thoroughly.
Water regularly for the first season, then reduce frequency.

Pro Tip

Wear gloves and long sleeves when pruning, as the sap can be a skin irritant for some people.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for maximum flowering.
Water deeply but infrequently once established.
Prune after blooming to encourage bushiness and more flowers.
Handle with care and educate others about its toxicity.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soil.
Never burn oleander trimmings, as the smoke is toxic.
Avoid planting where children or pets might be tempted to chew on it.
Don't overwater; it thrives on neglect once established.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Durable informal hedge or privacy screenTough accent plant for hot, dry locationsResilient choice for coastal and roadside plantings

Companion Plants

Lantana Bougainvillea Agave Phoenix roebelenii Plumbago auriculata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Oleander questions

What zones can White Oleander grow in?

White Oleander is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Oleander deer resistant?

Yes — White Oleander is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does White Oleander bloom?

White Oleander typically blooms in early summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Oleander need full sun?

White Oleander does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is White Oleander drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White Oleander handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.