Nerium oleander (white)
By amblealice
8 comments
Also known as: Oleander; Rose bay; Common oleander
Rose laurel.
Plant folklore: Provides oleandrin which can be used instead of
digitalis.
During the Peninsular Wars some of Wellington’s soldiers died after eating meat cooked on skewers made from the wood. Even cooking over a fire of the wood can cause poisoning. In North Africa, the leaves are used to treat scabies. Is used at funerals in both Christian and Hindu religions.
Factual inf: Native to the East Indies, this plant is extremely dangerous. Even smoke from a fire burning its wood is toxic.
Causes abdominal pain, vomiting, visual disturbances, rapid pulse, heart disfunction causing death. The sap if in contact with skin, can cause blistering, irritation and soreness.
Image borrowed from Gardengnome
21 Nov, 2009
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Comments
Gosh, I'm getting worried now, someone called 'Cherry' gave me a cutting of one which is now 2' tall. Not sure I want anything so dangerous.
21 Nov, 2009
Thank you Louise. If you've missed any of the others...look in Folklore of Plants....::)
21 Nov, 2009
Its ok Heron....she sent me one too.....just label it "handle with care"...:)
21 Nov, 2009
Heron, i work on and amongst mine regularly (without gloves) and have never had any adverse reaction, and i have a tendency to sensitivities to plants.
21 Nov, 2009
That's a pretty one but scary ,i would still have one though.
21 Nov, 2009
Thanks for your reassurance guys.
21 Nov, 2009
This is on my wish list Alice, glad of the info will make sure I`m careful when I get the plant.
21 Nov, 2009
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I love these plants, i have one in the front garden :-)))
Good bit of information there Alice.
21 Nov, 2009