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Nerium Oleander
As we always like to suggest plants that are suitable for our climate as well as easy for anyone to grow, this time we will talk about a fast growing, tough and versatile plant that is seen all over Cyprus. It can be found along highways, in gardens, in parks, even in altitudes that exceed 1000 meters.
General Description:
As it was said above, Nerium oleander is a fast growing, tough and versatile plant. It has leathery lance shaped leaves that, even when not in flower, make this an attractive plant. It has showy flowers in various colours. It usually flowers throughout the biggest part of the year. There are also the dwarf varieties. In Cyprus the commonly seen peach flowered dwarf variety is planted along the roads of Protaras and Ayia Napa in large numbers. It can also be planted in pots, especially the dwarf varieties, where it will do fine without a problem.
Soil:
Nerium is tolerant and adapts to almost any type of soil. However, well drained soil is always the best. It is a plant suited to growing on soil too poor for most other plants.
Light:
It thrives in full sun where it flowers profusely. It can be planted in the shade as well but flowers will be much less, if any.
Watering:
Normal to little watering required. When given too much water, it will grow lots of green and will flower less. The dwarf varieties will actually loose to a point their dwarf form if given too much water. Nerium tends to become leggy and grow suckers if it is over watered.
Fertilizing:
Nerium is a plant that does not need fertilizing. Once a year is more than enough, with a general purpose fertilizer.
Pruning:
Pruning can be done at any time of the year in order to maintain the desired form. As it is a versatile plant, it can be left to grow as a bush or trained into a small tree. It is however best to prune in winter when there are no flowers.
Colours:
White, red, pink, salmon, light yellow, double white, double red, double pink.
This plant is a great choice low maintenance plant, especially for those that do not spend all year in Cyprus or those that prefer the easy choice. Believe us when we say that you will be surprised how this plant seems to like neglect and reward it with lots and lots of flowers.
Happy Gardening!