Oleander (Nerium oleander) is an attractive evergreen shrub or small tree renowned for its striking beauty and abundance of flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region and Asia, oleander thrives in warm climates and is commonly seen in landscapes and gardens in many parts of the world.
The plant features long, slender leaves that are leathery and dark green, growing in pairs or whorls along the stems. Oleander blossoms from early summer until mid-autumn, producing clusters of flowers at the end of each branch. These flowers are typically funnel-shaped and can be found in a variety of colors including pink, red, white, and yellow.
Oleander flowers emit a subtle and mildly sweet fragrance that is not overpowering. The scent is delicate and slightly floral with a fresh, clean quality. Despite its gentle aroma, it should be noted that all parts of the oleander plant are highly toxic if ingested, and the sap can cause skin irritations. The scent of oleander is more commonly enjoyed in outdoor settings rather than as a cut flower or in perfumery, due to these toxicity concerns.