Oleander boasts stunning flowers and leaves, but beware: all parts of this beauty are highly toxic, so admire from afar

Nerium oleander, commonly known as oleander, is a beautiful yet highly toxic plant with distinctive leaves and flowers. Here's what is known about it:

Appearance:

• Leaves: Oleander leaves are arranged in pairs or whorls of threes, leathery, dark green, and narrow lanceolate in shape. They can grow up to 8 inches long and 1.5 inches wide.
• Flowers: The plant produces clusters of beautiful, funnel-shaped flowers in various shades of pink, red, white, peach, and yellow.

Important warning:

• Toxicity: It's crucial to remember that all parts of the oleander plant are highly toxic, containing cardiac glycosides that can cause serious and even fatal illness if ingested. This includes the leaves, flowers, stems, and even honey produced from its nectar.
• Keep away from children and pets: It's essential to keep oleander plants out of reach of children and pets, as even small amounts can be harmful.

Other uses:

• Ornamental plant: Despite its toxicity, oleander is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and drought tolerance. It's often used in landscaping, gardens, and containers.
• Traditional medicine: In some cultures, oleander has been used in traditional medicine, but it's crucial to note that this is extremely dangerous and should only be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Important to remember:

While oleander can be a beautiful addition to your garden, it's crucial to exercise extreme caution due to its toxicity. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, and never ingest any part of it. If you have any concerns, consult a professional gardener or healthcare provider.

Ref.:

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