Identification

• The oleander can reach up to 15 feet tall outdoors. Its blooms range in color from shades of red to violet, salmon and pure white. It produces flowers all summer and even into the fall months. Most species have eight petals in each bloom. The oleander came from the Mediterranean region of the world, so therefore it remains hardy even in drought conditions.
  
  

Care

• Obtain a cutting off an oleander by choosing a 5 to 6 inch branch without a bloom. It is best to do this in the spring or early summer. Place the cutting in water and transplant into regular potting soil when the roots are about an inch long.
  
  Place the potted plant in a sunny window that is away from heating vents, as these will dry it out. The leaves can burn if there is too much direct sun through a window, but it does need a good deal of light, particularly during the spring and summer months.
  
  Indoors an oleander plant will reach an average height of only 2 to 3 feet. During the spring and summer water your plant about once a week and never let the soil get completely dry. In the winter months, oleander plants need watering only every two weeks. Indoor plants react well to misting.
  
  Remove the dead blooms in order to cultivate new ones. You should see blooms even during the first year you transplant it indoors. Prune your plant throughout the year to prevent an ungainly appearance.
  
  

Disease

• The oleander plant is susceptible to greenflies in the spring months. These turn the young tender buds yellow. Mineral oil added to your insecticide will effectively treat this condition.
  
  Cochineals attack oleander plants and make scablike adhesions on the bud and leaves. Insecticides will remedy this problem.
  
  

Considerations

• Remember that every part of the oleander shrub is toxic so keep it away from young children and pets. It can cause skin irritation so be sure to wash your hands and arms thoroughly after tending to your plant.