Oleander (
Nerium oleander) is an attractive evergreen shrub that is commonly found in gardens and landscapes due to its beautiful (usually pink) showy flowers. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions, and grows in the wild in many parts of Texas, Arizona, Nevada and California. Oleander is sold at nurseries during the spring and summer months throughout most of the Unites States.
Oleander is one of the leading causes of poisoning cases in animals. All parts of oleander are toxic. It contains several powerful cardiac glycosides that are found in the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds and fruit as well as sap, plant nectar and even water in which oleander leaves have been floating. Eating just a single leaf can kill an adult horse. Birds only need to take a bite of a leaf to kill them.
