Their quick growth rate and thick multi-stemmed habit makes them ideal for use as a screen or informal hedge. Colors range from white through yellow, peach, salmon, and pink to deep burgundy red. The leaves are smooth, dark green, thick and leathery. They are long and narrow, usually between 4 and 6 inches long and an inch or less in width. The dwarf cultivars also have smaller leaves.
Leaves generally grow in whorls.
They will tolerate partial shade, but may have a lanky, open shape. Oleanders are tolerant of many different soil types, but must have good drainage. They will not do well in wet areas. Oleanders are very drought tolerant once established, but respond well to occasional deep watering. Oleanders can be allowed to grow in their natural large mound form, or they can be trained to a small multi-stemmed tree.