White Oleander Tree

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

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

Transform your Phoenix Valley garden with the timeless beauty of the White Oleander Tree, an elegant 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 is perfectly suited to warm climates and is a popular choice for Arizona landscapes. With its sophisticated blooms and resilient nature, White Oleander brings year-round appeal and structure to both residential and commercial settings.

Key Features of White Oleander Tree

Growing to a height of 8 to 12 feet with a spread of 6 to 10 feet, the White Oleander Tree forms a dense, rounded shape that can be pruned for a formal hedge or allowed to grow naturally as a stunning specimen plant. Its glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves provide a lush backdrop for large clusters of fragrant, white flowers that bloom from spring through fall, creating a striking contrast and enhancing the garden’s aesthetic.

Adapted to full sun, White Oleander thrives in well-draining soil and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for Phoenix Valley’s dry climate. Its salt tolerance also allows it to thrive in coastal-inspired landscapes. While low-maintenance, occasional watering during prolonged dry spells and a light spring fertilization can boost growth and bloom production, adding even more color and lushness to your garden.

A Water-Wise Choice for Phoenix Valley Gardens

White Oleander’s drought tolerance and low water needs make it a smart choice for Arizona’s water-conscious landscapes. This hardy shrub offers evergreen foliage and seasonal blooms without demanding frequent watering, promoting sustainable gardening practices in Phoenix Valley.

Versatile Uses for White Oleander Tree in Phoenix Valley Landscaping

• Formal Hedges and Privacy Screens: With its dense growth and year-round beauty, White Oleander is ideal for creating elegant hedges and privacy screens, providing both color and coverage along property lines and garden boundaries.

• Foundation Planting for Architectural Appeal: The bright white blooms and glossy green leaves make White Oleander an attractive foundation plant, adding elegance and structure to front gardens and entryways.

• Stand-Alone Specimen for Visual Interest: The White Oleander Tree’s graceful form and pure white flowers make it a striking standalone feature, adding a touch of sophistication to garden beds, patios, and seating areas.

• Xeriscaping and Drought-Tolerant Gardens: With its ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions, White Oleander is well-suited for xeriscapes and water-wise landscapes, blending seamlessly with other drought-tolerant plants.

Care Tips for Growing White Oleander Tree in Phoenix Valley

Plant White Oleander in a sunny location 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 will help maintain shape, especially if used as a hedge or screen. Note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, and the sap may cause skin irritation, so use caution and gloves when handling or pruning. With its low maintenance requirements, White Oleander is a reliable choice for Phoenix Valley gardeners seeking elegance and resilience.

Why White Oleander Tree is Perfect for Arizona Landscapes

The White Oleander Tree offers Phoenix Valley gardeners a refined, adaptable shrub that brings evergreen structure and seasonal blooms with minimal care. Its tolerance for drought, poor soil, and intense sunlight makes it well-suited to Arizona’s challenging landscape conditions. Whether used in hedges, foundation plantings, or as a standalone focal point, White Oleander combines beauty and durability, enhancing Arizona gardens with its classic look and resilience. For a water-wise shrub that thrives in warm climates, White Oleander is a top choice.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): White Oleander Tree

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and vibrant blooms)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space trees 8-10 feet apart for optimal growth and to accommodate their spreading canopy
• 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: White Oleander Tree is a self-supporting tree that grows into a tall, spreading form with clusters of white flowers and requires no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 3-4 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: White Oleander Tree is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 4-5 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks