Oleander : Nerium

White, yellow, red or purple, 2- to 3-in.-wide flowers bloom April through summer on evergreen shrubs, which reach up to 20 ft. tall.

pollution-, salt- and drought-tolerant Oleanders are used as hedges, windbreaks and freeway plants in desert and hot inland areas. Evergreen and deer-resistant, they need little care and grow rapidly. These 10 ft. x 10ft. shrubs have narrow, leathery leaves that are usually dark green, but one type has gold markings. Some have fragrant blossoms, and single- and double-flowering types, as well as dwarf shrubs are available. Also grown in containers.
Start by cuttings, which root in a glass of water, or buy plants in containers. Remove growing tips to promote branching. Prune after flowering to shape. Cut old growth close to the ground