Yellow Oleander (Thevetia peruviana)
Yellow “oleander” (not a true Nerium oleander) is striking and drought-hardy, but a bit controversial because of its high toxicity. Still, it’s common to see throughout the Phoenix area and can be a useful pioneer/support species in areas that will not be frequented by children or domesticated animals.
Mature Canopy Size
6–12 ft wide, 8–15 ft tall (can be grown as shrub, hedge, or pruned into small tree)
Growth Rate
Fast — up to 2–3 ft per year with irrigation
Water Requirements (Minimum vs. Maximum Growth)
Minimum: Low — thrives with deep watering every 2–3 weeks once established
For Maximum Growth & Bloom: Weekly irrigation in summer encourages dense foliage and nearly continuous flowers
Ecological & Functional Benefits
Provides evergreen screening or specimen accent
Long bloom season with showy yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers
Heat- and drought-adapted — handles reflected sun and poor soils well
Edible / Harvest Season / Nutritional Benefits
⚠️ Toxic — all parts of the plant, including flowers and seeds, are poisonous to humans and animals. Not edible.
Minimum Chill Hours
None — tropical/subtropical species adapted to hot, frost-free climates
Maintenance Requirements
Low to moderate — occasional pruning to shape or thin
Can drop seed pods that require cleanup
Long-lived and relatively pest-free
Thorny or Not?
No
Deciduous or Not?
Evergreen in Phoenix with proper irrigation
Root System
Fibrous, non-invasive roots
Safe near walls, patios, and pools
Not destructive to hardscape or septic systems
Performs well in tight planting strips or containers
Native Range
Native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Widely cultivated in arid and subtropical regions around the world.
Miscellaneous Notes
Sometimes confused with true oleander (Nerium oleander) but generally smaller and with more delicate foliage
Flowers year-round in frost-free climates; in Phoenix, blooms heaviest spring through fall
Extremely toxic if ingested — avoid planting where children or pets may nibble
Works well as a low-maintenance, evergreen centerpiece or hedge in full sun
Questions about the Yellow Oleander?
Comment below or on our social media pages @permascaping.
