While most of us picture classic pink blooms when we think of oleander, there’s actually a whole world of colors out there! If you’re looking to add some Mediterranean flair to your garden, here’s the lowdown on everything you need to know about oleander blossoms.
The Classic Pink Wild Form
In its natural habitat, the original wild oleander shows off flowers in various shades of pink. That’s actually why it’s often called the “Rose Bay”—a nod to those gorgeous, rose-like pink petals.
A Rainbow of Varieties
Beyond the traditional pink, breeders have developed some stunning varieties. You can find oleanders in several other colors to match your garden’s palette, including:
- Deep Reds
- Vibrant Purples
- Sunny Yellows
A Quick Note on “Yellow Oleander”
If you see a plant labeled “Yellow Oleander,” be a little careful! While there are true yellow oleander varieties, this name is often used for the tropical Lucky Nut tree (Thevetia peruviana). Even though they look similar, it’s not actually a close relative of the common oleander we usually grow.
Flower Characteristics
Oleander flowers are “perfect” or hermaphroditic. In gardener-speak, that means they are self-pollinating, so you don’t need a second plant nearby to get results. The flowers usually have five petals and grow in beautiful, clustered groups called cymes.
When Does Oleander Bloom?
The oleander blooming season is the highlight of the summer. You can usually expect a steady show of flowers from June all the way through September.
Pro Tip: Put Down the Pruning Shears!
Whatever you do, don’t cut off those spent flower stalks. Oleanders are smart—they actually start developing next year’s buds right at the tip of the old clusters. If you get too aggressive with the shears, you might accidentally snip away next summer’s floral display. Instead of pruning, just gently pluck off the old, withered blooms by hand to keep the plant looking tidy.
Troubleshooting: Why Isn’t My Oleander Blooming?
Oleanders are usually pretty eager to show off, but if yours is staying green and boring, something might be up. If your oleander isn’t blooming, it’s usually down to a watering/fertilizing issue or a location that’s a bit too shady. Occasionally, pests or diseases can also zap its energy. Do a little detective work now, and you’ll be back to a garden full of blossoms by next season!
