Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Thevetia peruviana or Yellow oleander

The genus Thevetia, family Apocynaceae, comprises 8 species of shrubs and small trees native to tropical regions of America. Some species are: Thevetia peruviana, Thevetia thevetioides, Thevetia gaumeri, Thevetia ovata.

Common names: Yellow oleander, Lucky nut. This species is native to Mexico and Central America.

They are perennial shrubs with a short, highly branched trunk that can reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. The decorative leaves, leathery and shiny, have a linear or lanceolate shape with a lighter midrib. The pretty tubular flowers can be yellow, orange or white and produce a pleasant perfume. They bloom in summer in the Mediterranean climate and several times a year in tropical and subtropical climates. They produce chestnut-like fruits (the seeds are poisonous).

They are used as isolated specimens, in small groups, to form hedges, in large pots for patios and terraces and as indoor plants. They are very toxic plants if any of their parts are ingested; they are not recommended for gardens where children play.

Thevetia peruviana needs full sun or semi-shade exposure and a warm climate. They do not resist frost.

The soil must be fertile and very well drained; use a normal garden soil with organic matter and coarse sand.

Water regularly waiting for the soil to be almost dry. They resist short periods of drought.

Fertilize in autumn with manure or compost.

Prune in late winter to keep it compact.

They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases.

They propagate from cuttings rooted in a sandy substrate that receives heat from below; They also reproduce by seeds soaked a few hours in hot water before sowing them.

Images of the shrub Thevetia peruviana or Yellow oleander