Plant description
Η Oleander or Rhododaphne (scientific name nerium oleander) belongs to the genus Nerium. Oleander is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. Its growth is fast. It has lanceolate, leathery, green leaves. The flowers are either single or double and have red, salmon, white, yellow, pink and orange hues. It blooms in summer. Many parts of it are toxic, which is due to the toxic substance nirine, and aims to protect the plant from animal attacks.
Developmental conditions and care
In general, oleander is a hardy and easily adaptable plant. The most suitable positions are the sunny ones, but it also grows in semi-shade. Withstands windy locations. It has no special requirements on soil. It grows in a variety of soils, such as poor, saline, etc. Still, it does not present problems at high temperatures, but if the temperature drops below 0°C, the plant can be destroyed. It is resistant to lack of water and can survive even in arid gardens.
Prune the oleander after it blooms to give it shape and direction. Remove its dry branches and withered flowers. If you do not prune it, its branches may bend and tilt under the weight. You can add a complete and balanced fertilizer in spring and autumn. Finally, in the spring and early summer, we recommend a spraying with an ecological preparation of summer pulp for the preventive treatment of scabies and cotton insects that infect the oleander every year.
Uses of oleander
It is considered the plant of the highways, as it is found in most of the national roads of the country due to its durability, rich flowering and resistance to pollutants. It can be used to decorate your garden, house entrances and flower pots on your balcony. It is suitable for creating hedges. If you plant it in a pot you should replant it or transplant it every 3 years. Ideal for coastal areas, because it is resistant to sea drops.
