Thevetia (Yellow Oleander)
Cascabela thevetia
Glossy foliage and yellow flowers identify this ornamental. All parts are poisonous.
- In this guide
- Non-native
- Plant group
- Shrubs & flowering vines
- Origins & context
- Tropical Americas
- Explore the collection
- Desert flora guide
A closer look.
Open a photograph to see the details. Use the arrows or swipe to explore the gallery.
Photographs from Desert Oasis Insider’s plant collection. Locations are shown where recorded in the original gallery.
Get to know this plant.
About this classification: Non-native
Grown here, with origins outside the local native flora. Non-native describes geographic origin; it does not automatically mean invasive.
Thevetia peruviana, commonly known as Yellow Oleander, is an attractive, evergreen shrub widely used in Coachella Valley landscapes. Originally native to tropical regions of Mexico and Central America, Yellow Oleander thrives here thanks to our warm desert climate.
Local homeowners often choose Yellow Oleander for its lush, glossy foliage and continuous bright-yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers. It’s popular as a privacy hedge, ornamental shrub, or patio container plant, bringing tropical elegance to desert gardens.
However, locals should exercise caution: all parts of Yellow Oleander are toxic if ingested, and sap may irritate skin. It's best planted away from pets and children.
Quick Facts for Coachella Valley:
-
Origin: Imported (native to Mexico and Central America)
-
Uses: Privacy hedges, ornamental accent plant, patio containers
-
Care: Heat-tolerant, moderate water use
-
Caution: Highly toxic if ingested; handle with care
More plants from our gardens.
Bougainvillea
Colorful papery bracts bring vivid color to walls, courtyards and garden plantings.
Meet this plant
Eremophila maculata
Spotted emu bush brings tubular flowers to cultivated desert landscapes.
Meet this plant
Firecracker Plant
Arching stems carry a cascade of red tubular flowers in garden settings.
Meet this plantFollow the story outside.
Bighorn Sheep of the Coachella Valley
Discover the bighorn sheep that share this landscape and the desert plants connected to their lives.
Read the story
La Quinta Cove Hiking Trails: Three Routes and What to Know Before You Go
Take the plant guide into the landscape with a closer look at the trails around La Quinta Cove.
Read the story
Hiking in Palm Desert: Trails, Views & Safety Guide
Continue exploring Palm Desert’s trails, open views and the outdoor spaces just beyond town.
Read the story