White Oleander

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 8-12 feet
Spread: 6-10 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

White Oleander (Nerium oleander 'White') – Elegant, Drought-Tolerant Evergreen for Arizona Landscapes

Add a touch of sophistication to your Phoenix Valley garden with White Oleander, a stunning evergreen shrub or small tree known for its lush, dark green foliage and clusters of pure white flowers. Scientifically referred to as Nerium oleander 'White,' this Mediterranean native thrives in warm, dry climates and is a popular choice for Arizona landscapes looking for beauty, resilience, and low maintenance. With its fragrant blooms and strong adaptability, White Oleander brings year-round elegance to both residential and commercial settings.

Key Features of White Oleander

The White Oleander grows to a height of 8 to 12 feet with a spread of 6 to 10 feet, forming a dense, rounded shape that can be pruned for a formal hedge or allowed to grow naturally as a specimen plant. Its dark green, leathery leaves provide a rich backdrop for the clusters of fragrant, white flowers that bloom from spring through fall. These blooms create a striking contrast against the green foliage, enhancing the visual appeal and creating a serene, sophisticated look in the garden.

Adapted to full sun, White Oleander thrives in well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for Phoenix Valley’s dry climate. Its tolerance for salt and poor soil also makes it suitable for challenging environments, including coastal-inspired and urban landscapes. While low-maintenance, occasional watering during extended dry spells and light fertilization in the spring will encourage more vigorous growth and prolific blooming.

A Water-Wise Choice for Phoenix Valley Gardens

White Oleander’s minimal water needs and drought tolerance make it a smart choice for Arizona’s water-conscious gardens. This hardy shrub offers year-round greenery and flowers without the need for frequent watering, supporting sustainable gardening practices in the Phoenix Valley.

Versatile Uses for White Oleander in Phoenix Valley Landscaping

• Formal Hedges and Privacy Screens: With its dense, bushy growth, White Oleander is ideal for creating elegant, formal hedges and privacy screens, providing year-round coverage and blooms along property lines and fences.

• Ornamental Foundation Planting: The pristine white flowers and glossy green foliage make White Oleander an attractive foundation plant, adding structure and beauty to front gardens or entryways.

• Stand-Alone Specimen Plant: The graceful form and fragrant blooms of White Oleander make it a striking standalone feature, adding elegance and visual interest to garden beds, patios, or outdoor seating areas.

• Xeriscaping and Drought-Tolerant Gardens: White Oleander’s resilience to drought makes it a natural fit for xeriscapes and water-wise landscapes, blending well with other low-water plants.

Care Tips for Growing White Oleander in Phoenix Valley

Plant White Oleander in full sun with well-draining soil for optimal growth. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system; afterward, it requires minimal supplemental watering. Prune after the blooming season to shape and control growth, especially if used for hedges or screens. Note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, and its sap may cause skin irritation, so exercise caution when handling or pruning. With its low-maintenance needs, White Oleander is a reliable choice for Phoenix Valley gardeners seeking beauty and resilience.

Why White Oleander is Perfect for Arizona Landscapes

The White Oleander offers Phoenix Valley gardeners a refined, versatile shrub that provides evergreen structure and seasonal blooms with minimal care. Its tolerance for drought, poor soil, and intense sunlight makes it ideal for both residential and commercial landscapes in Arizona’s dry climate. Whether used as a privacy hedge, in xeriscapes, or as a focal point, White Oleander combines elegance and durability, enhancing Arizona gardens with its classic color and adaptability. For a water-wise shrub that thrives in warm climates, White Oleander is a top choice.