From a botanical perspective, the common oleander (Nerium oleander) is exceptionally well-suited for use as a formal or informal hedge. Its growth habit is naturally dense and bushy, with multiple stems arising from the base. When planted in a continuous row and pruned, the plants knit together to form a solid, impenetrable vegetative barrier. This density is due to its vigorous growth rate and the production of numerous lateral branches in response to pruning. Furthermore, oleander is a broadleaf evergreen, ensuring the hedge provides year-round structure and privacy. Its remarkable tolerance to drought, salt spray, wind, and poor soil—traits developed in its native Mediterranean and Asian habitats—means it thrives in challenging urban and coastal conditions where other hedge plants might fail, requiring minimal irrigation once established.
When the landscaping goal is to block an undesirable view, create a private space, or reduce noise and wind, oleander functions superbly as a tall screen. Left unpruned or minimally shaped, most oleander cultivars can easily reach heights of 12 to 20 feet, forming a formidable living wall. This application leverages the plant's natural size and form rather than constraining it. The screen's effectiveness is enhanced by the plant's foliage; the long, lance-shaped, leathery leaves are arranged in whorls of three or four along the stem, creating a thick texture that is difficult to see through. For optimal screening, selecting taller, robust cultivars like the classic red or white types is advisable. This use requires less maintenance than a manicured hedge but more space for the plants to achieve their full width and majestic presence.
As a specimen plant, oleander is chosen for its outstanding ornamental qualities and used as a focal point in the landscape. Its botanical attributes truly shine in this singular role. From late spring through fall, oleander produces prolific clusters of showy, funnel-shaped flowers in a vibrant palette including white, pink, red, salmon, and yellow. This extended blooming period provides long-season interest. Its form can be trained into a large, sprawling shrub or a small, multi-trunked tree that showcases the attractive, smooth gray bark. As a specimen, its architectural form, evergreen foliage, and spectacular floral display are given center stage. It is often used this way in large containers, entryways, or as a centerpiece in island beds, where its beauty and form can be appreciated from all angles without competition.
Despite its versatility, a critical botanical characteristic of oleander must be considered in any landscaping application: its high toxicity. All parts of the plant—leaves, stems, flowers, and sap—contain potent cardiac glycosides (oleandrin and neriin) that are poisonous if ingested by humans, pets, or livestock. This necessitates careful site selection, avoiding areas frequented by curious children or grazing animals. Furthermore, the sap can cause skin irritation for some individuals, so wearing gloves during pruning is essential. Another consideration is its susceptibility to the bacterial disease Oleander Leaf Scorch (Xylella fastidiosa), which is fatal and for which there is no cure. In areas where this disease is prevalent, its use in landscaping is discouraged to prevent spread.
