I have heard that oleander is poisonous and would like to know what is poisonous about the plant. Is just touching the leaves or do you need to do something else to get poisoned? In South Texas I have seen little children playing around it all the time and there was no problem. Do you have to be allergic to it to get a reaction? Thanks

By David on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 11:04 pm:

Hi Joe, EVERYTHING on the Oleander is poisonous. Just rubbing up against the plant or hiding behind it, is not going to be a problem. The problem starts when the flesh or juice of the plant makes contact with the skin,eyes, mouth ETC.
I would wash the areas that have been effected quickly... The biggest problem and death will occur is ingesting the leaves,stems,roots and especially the blooms. If you drink a tea of any of the above, you will die......The allergic reaction could be a slight problem, maybe a rash will develop, but at least it will not kill you....Good luck....