The oleander is a flower that most people know and love. Frequently used in bouquets, this flower is known for its toxicity. When consumed, it can be incredibly deadly.
Despite this malevolent undertone, though, the oleander flower actually has some deep symbolism. It’s not all bad!
In fact, this broadleaf evergreen plant, with its dark green leaves and colorful blooms, is one of the best for garden walls. It has lovely funnel shaped flowers and its blooms tend to hang on long through the summer.
If you’re looking for flowering shrubs to grow, the oleander plant is one of the best for its beauty (and ability to produce gorgeous cut oleander flowers!) but also for its deep symbolism.
Here’s what you need to know about this popular choice.
What Does Oleander Mean?
The scientific name for oleander in Nerium oleander. This plant is a shrub or small tree in the dogbane family.
It was first classified by Linnaeus, although some people dispute this.
Regardless, it is the Latinized form of the Ancient Greek name for the plant Nerion, which is derived from the Greek word for water, “neros.”
This is because the oleander flower tends to grow along streams and on riverbanks. As you might expect, the name oleander has close ties to a Greek myth.
According to Greek mythology, oleander was given its common name from a young man who fell deeply in love with Lady Love.
Unfortunately, this Greek story ended in tragedy.
The young man, named Leander, swam the Hellespont every night to see his love.
On one night, while trying to reach a blossom for his lady, he drowned in the Aegean Sea. The love affair ended.
When she came to the banks the next morning, she cried out,” OLeander!” until finally, she found the beautiful flowers.
Today, they are now viewed as a symbol of everlasting love that has endured past ancient times.
Today, oleander is one of the common flower names for boys.
Is the Oleander Poisonous?
Even though oleander flowers are grown all around the world and hold deep symbolism for many people.
Part of the dogbane family, the oleander plant is extremely toxic to humans with its milky sap.
All parts are toxic, so you need to be careful not to ingest any of its pieces!
This highly toxic plant can be deadly and causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, blurred vision, and heart conditions. If consumed, you’ll need to seek medical attention immediately.
What is the Oleander Flower Meaning/Symbolism?
Oleander flowers can also symbolize destiny and understanding. It can show that you are sensitive to how other people feel and that you want to make peace in difficult situations.
Oleander flowers can symbolize everything from endless love to the complicated nature of love.
It’s been prized by many cultures for its uses in traditional medicine and can convey many meanings.
It’s been depicted by many great artists and has multiple mentions in pop culture.
The oleander flower is found in all colors, including yellow, peach, red, burgundy, white, and pink.
What is the Symbolism of the White Oleander Flower?
White oleander flowers have a rich symbolism that varies across different cultures and contexts. It is often associated with purity, innocence, and beauty.
In ancient Greek mythology, it was believed the white oleander flower symbolized protection, and it was often used in medicinal and spiritual practices.
The white flowers were believed to offer spiritual protection, as well as cleanse and purify the air.
Today, white oleander flowers, with their double white blooms, are still used to symbolize purity and innocence, and it is often used in wedding bouquets and decorations.
What Do Red Oleander Flowers Symbolize?
In contrast to the white oleander, the red oleander flower has a very different symbolism.
Red flowers symbolize passion, romance, and love.
This meaning is derived from the dark red blossoms, which represents the intensity of the emotions associated with love and romance.
Red oleander is often used in bouquets and arrangements, especially during Valentine’s day and other romantic occasions. It is also known to be a symbol of power and strength.
What Do Pink Oleander Flowers Symbolize?
On the other hand, large pink flowers symbolize gentleness, femininity, and love. They are often given as gifts to express admiration, gratitude, and affection.
Pink oleander is also associated with the Southern USA, where it is commonly planted for its beauty and fragrance.
The color pink is known to represent love, and when combined with the oleander flower, it symbolizes a gentle and caring relationship.
What is the Cultural Significance of an Oleander?
The oleander flower is native to regions in Portugal, Morocco, and other parts of the Mediterranean region, namely the Isle of Capri.
It can also be found in Asia and China. Also called the ‘desert rose,’ this plant is often viewed as the feminine face of God by those in southern China and other parts of south Asia.
In many places, in fact, oleander plants are some of the most significant indicators of pagan beliefs as well as of the early Christian Bible’s meanings. It is also a fixture in Hebrew mythology.
In Greek mythology, however, the oleander flower is associated with romance and charm, based on the legend described earlier in this article.
Oleander plants, according to Victorian tradition, were viewed to symbolize caution as well as the complex nature of love. However, there are plenty of superstitions around this plant, too.
The plant was highly regarded by Mesopotamians for its healing powers, but later, it was said that oleander flowers should not be kept in the bedroom – they could cause the people residing there to become sick.
Romans used oleander plants to relieve hangovers, while in Arabic medicine, the plant was used to treat cancer.
What is the Symbolism of an Oleander Tattoo?
An oleander tattoo can hold many potential meanings. You can choose to get this tattoo in a variety of colors, too. Most often, this tattoo symbolizes caution, frailty, or, in general, something of a delicate nature.
When Should You Give Someone Oleander Blooms?
Oleander flowers are suitable for many occasions, but make sure the recipient of your gift knows just how toxic these blooms can be!
You can give oleander blooms as cut flowers or as a potted shrub.
Whatever the case may be, this beautiful flower is suitable for a variety of occasions, including birthdays and holidays.
*Photo: CatSteel/depositphotos
