Oleander (Nerium oleander 'Calypso')

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oleanders
Featured
Resistances
Birds, Deer Resistant, Drought tolerant, Gophers/Voles, Humidity tolerant, Rabbit Resistant, Salt tolerant, Squirrels
Suitable Locations
Street Tree, Xeriscapic
Soil pH Preferences
Neutral (6.6 – 7.3), Slightly acid (6.1 – 6.5), Slightly alkaline (7.4 – 7.8)
Sun Requirements
Full Sun, Full Sun to Partial Shade, Partial or Dappled Shade
Toxicity
Fruit is poisonous, Leaves are poisonous, Other: Every part of this plant is poisonous, Roots are poisonous
Uses
Windbreak or Hedge
Wildlife Attractant
Bees, Butterflies
Bloom Size
1"-2"
Containers
Not suitable for containers
Flower Color
Magenta-pink, Other: Deep, Pink
Flower Time
Late spring or early summer, Late summer or early fall, Other: Mainly summertime, Summer
Flowers
Fragrant, Showy
Leaves
Evergreen
Life cycle
Perennial
Plant Habit
Shrub
Plant Height
10 - 18 feet
Plant Spread
10 - 15 feet
Propagation: Other methods
Cuttings: Stem
Detailed Information

Oleander (Nerium oleander) in general, originates from a broad area encompassing the **Mediterranean region and parts of Asia.**

The specific cultivar ‘Calypso’ is still *Nerium oleander*, just a selected variety known for particular characteristics (like flower color, size, or growth habit). Therefore, its ultimate geographical origin is still tied to the broader native range of the species. While horticultural selection can adapt a plant’s tolerance to different conditions, it doesn’t fundamentally change its genetic origins.

Here’s a breakdown of why the Mediterranean and Asia are the key areas:

* **Mediterranean Region:** Oleander thrives in the hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters characteristic of this region. It’s commonly found along streams, riverbeds, and in other moist areas within the Mediterranean landscape.
* **Asia:** Its native range extends eastward through parts of the Middle East and into Asia, including areas of the Indian subcontinent.

While now widely cultivated worldwide, it is not native to places like North America, South America, or Australia.

Not suitable for containers