MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Oleander (Nerium oleander)

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Oleander (Nerium oleander)

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a common ornamental evergreen shrub. It is used as a freeway median divider in warmer states, such as California. This plant is extremely toxic, and a single leaf may kill an adult. This photograph shows oleander not yet in bloom.

Update Date: 2/27/2008

Updated by: Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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