Graceful, elegant, capable of embellishing courtyards and terraces with wonderful flowering. There is no doubt that the oleander (Nerium oleander) can immediately capture attention: pink, red or white corollas, dark green foliage that is always shiny, it really seems like the perfect ally for anyone who wants a Mediterranean corner in the heart of the city.
Its charm, however, is only part of the story. Behind that refined air, lies a less well-known and decidedly more insidious side. A bit like some neighbors: apparently impeccable, but ready to create problems at the slightest unexpected event. At first glance the oleander seems harmless, almost to be caressed… but underneath, it’s a completely different story.
It’s a shame that behind this beauty lies a real risk: the oleander is one of the plants more toxic widespread in Europe. This is why those who have children or pets should think twice before growing it.
Because oleander can be dangerous even in small doses
You don’t need to be a botanist to recognize that the oleander is drop dead gorgeous. The problem, unfortunately, is that it is in a literal sense. All its parts – flowers, leaves, sap, even dry branches – contain oleandrina decidedly unfriendly substance. And it’s not alone: there are also digitoxin and nerioside, which sound like spells but are cardiac glycosides capable of sending the heart into overdrive. It takes very little to cause serious damage. A microscopic amount can alter the heart rhythm, especially in the little ones. Children and animals, with their small bodies, have less margin for error. And here everything is at stake: just one leaf is enough, or even less.
A simple comparison? Keeping an oleander in the garden where children play is a bit like leaving a candle lit in the middle of a tent: as long as everything goes well, no one will notice. But the risk is there, ready to explode. Effectively, half a gram of dry leaf can kill a small dog. This is enough to understand that it is not an issue to be underestimated. Anyone who has pets or children knows how difficult it is to keep them away from anything potentially dangerous. After all, who has never seen a curious child pick a flower to put it in his mouth, or a puppy nibble on a twig?
The most common risks: ingestion, inhalation and contact
You don’t have to eat it to take risks. And here the oleander gets really sneaky. Ingestion is the most dangerous route, yes, but not the only one.
Children, as we know, put everything in their mouths. And those bright pink or white flowers seem to be made to be picked. Even animals, especially dogs and cats, can give in to the temptation to bite something they find in the garden.
But also pay attention to the fires: burn oleander woodperhaps during a barbecue or in the fireplace, can turn into a fatal mistake. The fumes released irritate the respiratory tract and can cause nausea, discomfort and, in the most serious cases, intoxication.
And it’s not over. Even the only one contact with the lymph it can cause trouble. If you have small cuts or scratches on your hands, there is a risk of real irritation chemical burns it is concrete.
Symptoms of intoxication come quickly, sometimes silently:
- Nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps
- Intense diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Abnormal heartbeat (slow or too fast)
- Dropping blood pressure, tremors, confusion
- In extreme cases: convulsions, coma, cardiac arrest
In animals, the signals are similar: too much saliva, shortness of breath, eyes lost in space. And if you don’t rush to the vet, the situation can worsen in a few hours.
How to Handle Oleander Safely (Or Avoid It Altogether)
Having an oleander is not a crime. But it must be handled with care, almost as if it were a dangerous appliance: beautiful, useful, but only if handled with care.
During pruning? Gloves required. It’s not a matter of looking good: it’s precisely to avoid direct contact with sap and leaves. And as soon as you finish, well washed hands and clean tools. Always.
If there are children o animals in the houseit’s worth asking yourself if it’s really worth it. Because it’s not enough to say “don’t touch”: a moment of inattention can be enough. Better to move it to an inaccessible spot, or – better yet – opt for alternatives.
Which? Here are some calmer ideas:
- Lavender: besides being beautiful, it also keeps mosquitoes away
- Abelia: lasts a long time and looks great
- Camellia: sophisticated, zero risks
- Hydrangea: handle with caution, but more manageable
- Jasmine: fragrant, climbing and safe
- Lantana: colorful, but avoid if you have very curious pets
Finally, one thing must be made clear: there is no antidote for oleander poisoning. No DIY remedies, no milk, no waiting. At the slightest doubt, call your doctor or poison control center immediately. With certain things, you can’t joke. In short, the oleander is like those beautiful gifts but with an instruction leaflet in small, complicated print. It is worth reading it carefully before opening the package.
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