Common Oleander (SPC Clearwater Campus Plants)

Common Oleander

Nerium oleander

Contributors ²

Cierra Deskins

Summary ³

Nerium oleander /ˈnɪəriəm ˈoʊliːændər/ is a shrub or small tree in the dogbane family Apocynaceae, toxic in all its parts. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Nerium. It is most commonly known as nerium or oleander, from its superficial resemblance to the unrelated olive Olea. It is so widely cultivated that no precise region of origin has been identified, though southwest Asia has been suggested. The ancient city of Volubilis in Morocco may have taken its name from the Berber name alili or oualilt for the flower. Oleander is one of the most poisonous commonly grown garden plants.

Interesting Fact ²

Oleander is very toxic to most animals, including humans. Animals can be poisoned by eating it, being poked by it and inhaling its smoked if burned. The Crow Butterfly eats Oleander in its larval stage and stores its toxins, making it deadly to predators.

Oleander Facts [Internet]. Soft Schools. [cited 21 July 2019]. Available from: http://softschools.com/facts/plants/oleander_facts/641/