An ornamental shrub to 4m, often with many slender stems from the ground. Dwarf, double-flowered and variegated varieties are now popular. The perfumed flowers are pink, red, white or apricot, 4–5cm across with five spreading petals, and are usually clustered at the end of the branches.

All parts of this plant are toxic and deaths have been reported from significant ingestions. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy and dizziness. Delayed effects include slow heart beat, seizures and coma. The flower perfume may cause respiratory irritation and skin contact with the sap may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Oleanders do best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade; too little light will cause the plant to get a leggy, open look and reduces flowering.