Nerium oleander. Information and advice about this houseplant - shrub. 

The Plant: Nerium oleander is a popular evergreen shrub which is grown outside in southern Europe and America but can be grown in a container in the U.K. The plant resembles a willow with its tough, narrow leaves which are grouped in threes around the sturdy stem. The plant may reach nearly 2m high, and can produce single or double flowers in a variety of pastel shades.

Its needs: Good light is required by Nerium oleander species, including some direct sun. A winter minimum of 7C.

Care: Water and feed regularly throughout spring and summer but reduce this to a minimum over winter. The Oleander can be stood outside during summer but try to acclimatise the plant gradually and bring it in if there is a danger of cooler nights. Cut back flowering stems to maintain a reasonably compact plant. Red spider mite and scale insects can be a problem.

Good for: The Nerium oleanders make good conservatory plants, their striking blooms are worth the wait.

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