Thevetia peruviana, commonly known as Yellow Oleander or Lucky Nut, is an evergreen shrub or small tree from the Apocynaceae family. Native to Central and South America, Thevetia is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its attractive flowers and glossy foliage. However, it’s important to note that all parts of the plant, including the seeds, are highly toxic if ingested and can be harmful to humans and animals, so caution should be exercised when planting it in areas accessible to children or pets.
Landscape Use:
Thevetia peruviana is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its colorful flowers and glossy foliage.
It can be used as an ornamental specimen plant, accent plant, or as a flowering hedge or screen.
Yellow Oleander is also suitable for container planting on patios and balconies, where its beauty can be enjoyed up close.
Caution: As mentioned earlier, all parts of Thevetia peruviana are highly toxic if ingested, and care should be taken to keep the plant away from children and pets. The seeds, in particular, are extremely poisonous and can cause severe reactions if consumed.
Overall, Thevetia peruviana (Yellow Oleander) is a striking and attractive plant, valued for its colorful flowers and glossy foliage. Its tolerance to hot and dry conditions makes it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions. However, its toxic nature requires careful consideration and placement in areas where it won’t pose a risk to human or animal health.
Top of Form
Here’s a general description of Thevetia peruviana (Yellow Oleander):
Plant Characteristics:
Flowers: Thevetia peruviana produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that can be yellow, apricot, or peach in color. The flowers are usually single and have five lobes. They are borne in clusters at the branch tips and are highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Leaves: The leaves of Thevetia are glossy, lance-shaped, and arranged in whorls along the stems. They are deep green in color, providing an attractive backdrop to the colorful flowers.
Growth Habit: Yellow Oleander can reach a height of 6 to 20 feet (2 to 6 meters) or more under favorable conditions. It has a dense and bushy growth habit, with a rounded or spreading crown.
Cultural Requirements:
Light: Thevetia peruviana thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce abundant flowers and maintain its lush appearance.
Temperature: This plant is well-adapted to warm and tropical climates. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Watering: Yellow Oleander prefers regular watering, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist. However, it is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil and is tolerant of various soil types, including sandy or loamy soils.
Fertilization: Occasional fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) can promote healthy growth and flowering.
