Dwarf Red Oleander

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 3-5 feet
Spread: 3-5 feet
Flower Color: red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Dwarf Red Oleander (Nerium oleander 'Petite Red' or 'Dwarf Red') – Compact, Vibrant Evergreen for Arizona Landscapes

Bring bold color and Mediterranean charm to your Phoenix Valley garden with Dwarf Red Oleander, a compact and low-maintenance shrub known for its deep red flowers and lush, dark green foliage. This petite version of the traditional oleander, scientifically referred to as Nerium oleander 'Petite Red' or simply 'Dwarf Red,' is an ideal choice for landscapes where space is limited or where lower hedges are desired. Despite its smaller size, Dwarf Red Oleander offers the same evergreen beauty and vivid blooms as larger oleander varieties, making it a popular choice for water-wise landscapes.

Key Features of Dwarf Red Oleander

Dwarf Red Oleander grows to a height and spread of about 3 to 5 feet, forming a dense, rounded shape that works well in small garden beds, borders, or as a feature plant in containers. Its deep red, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom profusely from spring through fall, providing a stunning, long-lasting display of color. This evergreen shrub’s glossy, dark green leaves create a lush background that enhances the vibrant red blooms, making it a standout addition to any landscape.

Adapted to full sun, Dwarf Red Oleander thrives in well-draining soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it perfect for Phoenix Valley’s dry climate. Regular watering during extended dry periods and occasional fertilization in the spring can encourage even healthier growth and more prolific flowering, though this plant requires minimal care to thrive.

A Water-Wise Choice for Phoenix Valley Gardens

Dwarf Red Oleander’s low water needs and drought tolerance make it a valuable addition to Arizona’s water-conscious gardens. This compact shrub provides year-round greenery and seasonal blooms with little watering, promoting sustainable landscaping in Phoenix Valley.

Versatile Uses for Dwarf Red Oleander in Phoenix Valley Landscaping

• Low Hedges and Borders: Dwarf Red Oleander’s compact growth habit makes it ideal for creating low hedges and borders, adding color and structure to garden beds and along pathways.

• Foundation Planting: Its evergreen foliage and bright red blooms make Dwarf Red Oleander an attractive choice for foundation plantings, providing color and texture near home entrances or patios.

• Container Planting for Patios and Entryways: With its smaller size, Dwarf Red Oleander is perfect for container planting, where its vibrant flowers and compact form can be enjoyed up close on patios, balconies, and entryways.

• Xeriscaping and Drought-Tolerant Gardens: Adapted to dry conditions, Dwarf Red Oleander is well-suited for xeriscapes and water-wise gardens, blending seamlessly with other low-water plants.

Care Tips for Growing Dwarf Red Oleander in Phoenix Valley

Plant Dwarf Red Oleander in full sun with well-draining soil for optimal growth. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system; afterward, it requires minimal supplemental watering. Light pruning after the blooming season helps maintain shape, especially if used as a low hedge or border. Note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, and its sap may cause skin irritation, so use caution when handling or pruning. With its low-maintenance needs, Dwarf Red Oleander is an excellent choice for Phoenix Valley gardeners seeking impactful, drought-tolerant shrubs.

Why Dwarf Red Oleander is Perfect for Arizona Landscapes

Dwarf Red Oleander offers Phoenix Valley gardeners a compact, vibrant shrub that provides evergreen structure and seasonal blooms with minimal care. Its tolerance for drought, compact size, and bold color make it a versatile addition to small spaces, xeriscapes, and container gardens. Whether used as a low hedge, in foundation plantings, or as a colorful focal point, Dwarf Red Oleander brings Mediterranean beauty and resilience to Arizona landscapes. For a low-maintenance shrub that thrives in warm climates, Dwarf Red Oleander is a top choice.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Dwarf Red Oleander

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 4-5 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Dwarf Red Oleander does not require staking and naturally forms a rounded shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Dwarf Red Oleander is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks