Dwarf Oleander

Nerium oleander 'Petite Pink'

A beauty of a plant, dwarf oleander 'Petite Pink' is hardy, compact, and adds a splash of color to the landscape.

This smaller size makes oleanders available to homeowners who don't have the large space it takes to grow full-size varieties.

'Petite Pink' is the most commonly available dwarf variety, with pastel pink blossoms that can blanket the entire shrub.

If you ever wonder if a shrub is easy care, check to see how many commercial locations are using it. Dwarf oleander is often planted on the grounds of banks and other businesses. Care is minimal and the rewards are great.

Oleanders are poisonous if ingested, so keep this in mind if you have small children or pets that may munch their way around the garden.

Usually the only issue gardeners face - and not everyone is affected - is a skin irritation from the sap while trimming and handling cuttings.

The solution is to wear garden gloves when pruning the plant, as well as sunglasses (a plant's stem can squirt you in the eye when you cut it).

Certain caterpillars like oleander plants. They devour the leaves and cocoon nearby. The dwarf oleander doesn't seem to be as susceptible to these pests are full-size varieties but there's always that possibility.

To avoid attracting the nerium caterpillar, place your plants away from structures where the bugs can cocoon. Check your shrubs regularly - if you spot caterpillars, begin a regimen of spraying thuracide - a natural bacteria - immediately.

Plant specs

Oleander shrubs are evergreen, cold hardy plants, thriving in both Zone 9 and 10.

They're moderately salt-tolerant plants that prefer full to part sun areas and are moderately drought tolerant once established.

The Petite Pink dwarf variety grows to about 4 feet tall but can easily be kept at 3 feet.

Bloom time is on and off all year, more in warmer months.

Oleanders are considered to be deer-resistant plants.

Plant care

Add top soil to the hole when you plant - or substitute organic peat humus. You can add composted cow manure as well to enrich the soil around the root ball.

Cut back hard in the spring...late March or early April. Trim to shape anytime.

Give your plants a regular drink with time to dry out between waterings.

Fertilize 3 times a year - in spring, summer and autumn - with a quality granular fertilizer. You can supplement feedings to promote more bloom by fertilizing with bone meal and/or liquid.

Plant spacing

Place these dwarf shrubs about 3 feet apart. They're best planted away from the house to avoid possible caterpillar problems, but if you decide to plant against the house come out at least 3 feet.

This small, pink oleander will grow in a container, though it does best planted in the ground.