Water
Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage in the pot and in the garden bed.
Also known as Conessi · Conessi Bark · Easter Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Holarrhena pubescens, the Bitter Oleander, is an ornamental shrub or small tree with fragrant white flowers, native to tropical Asia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. More sun generally leads to better flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; ensure good drainage.
Well-draining soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures (18-25°C). Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Highly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage in the pot and in the garden bed.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to remove dead or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best after flowering. This encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require stratification. Cuttings root best in a well-draining medium with bottom heat.
Patience is key for successful germination and rooting.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bitter Oleander (Holarrhena pubescens)
Where Bitter Oleander (Holarrhena pubescens) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Holarrhena |
| Species | Holarrhena pubescens |
Similar in genus Holarrhena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
