Oleander, also known as Liu Ye peach or "half a year red," is a striking evergreen shrub belonging to the Apocynaceae family. Native to Iran, it has been widely cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions, including all provinces in China. This plant thrives in warm, humid climates and can tolerate partial shade, though it prefers full sun. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold temperatures.
Morphologically, oleander can grow up to 5 meters tall, with smooth, hairless stems that contain a milky sap. Its leaves are arranged in opposite pairs near the base of the branches, narrow and lance-shaped, measuring about 11–15 cm in length and 2–2.5 cm in width. The leaves are light green on the underside, with flat, parallel lateral veins. The flowers appear in terminal clusters, featuring dark red, fragrant blossoms with a double corolla. The petals are scale-like and split at the tip. The fruit is a long, slender capsule, typically 10–23 cm in length, with seeds covered in yellow-brown hairs.
Oleander is highly adaptable, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils that are neutral, though it can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline conditions. It is resilient against pollutants like sulfur dioxide and chlorine, making it an ideal choice for urban environments. Its strong, flexible branches make it easy to prune and shape, allowing for creative landscaping.
Propagation is commonly done through cuttings, which can be taken in spring or summer. To improve rooting success, cuttings can be soaked in clean water for 7–10 days before planting. Alternatively, they can be placed directly in water at around 20°C, with frequent water changes. Once rooted, they can be transplanted into pots or garden beds. Another method involves girdling a two-year-old branch, bending it down, and burying it in soil until roots form, after which it can be separated and planted.
In cultivation, oleander requires regular watering and fertilization with organic materials like pig manure or bean cake. During winter, it should be moved indoors to a cool, dry cellar, where watering is reduced and the root area is kept slightly covered. In spring, when temperatures rise, it can be brought back outdoors, and it will flower from April to July. After flowering, pruning encourages new growth and additional blooms throughout the year.
Oleander has multiple uses. Its bark fibers are valuable for blending in textiles, while its roots and bark contain compounds used in cardiac medications. The leaves and stems can be used as natural insecticides. In landscaping, it is ideal for parks, roadsides, lawns, and traffic islands, adding vibrant color during the summer months. It’s also popular as a potted plant due to its long flowering period and colorful blooms.
However, it's important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic. Ingestion by humans or animals can be fatal, so care should be taken when handling or planting this beautiful but dangerous plant.
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