Common Allergy Triggers in Virginia

Common Allergy Triggers in Virginia

Common Name:     Oleander
Scientific Name: Nerium oleander

Habitat:         Cultivated landscapes

Range:           Throughout the Southeast of the United States and California

Season:          Spring to fall

Type:            Evergreen shrub

Leaves:          Opposite or whorled, lance-shaped, stiff, smooth, 4-8" long

Flowers:         Showy, trumpet-shaped, white, red, pink, peach, 1.5-3" wide

Flowering Season: Spring to fall

Fruits:          Ridged capsule to 6" long, splitting lengthwise
Allergenic Components: Entire plant, including smoke from burning and water in which the flowers have been placed
Allergenic Properties: Dermatological

Comments:        The sap and leaves of this deadly ornamental shrub have caused contact dermatitis. The fragrance affects individuals with odor sensitivities. Highly toxic and may be fatal if ingested. Symptoms of ingestion may include nausea, vomiting, pain in the oral cavity, cramping, dizziness, stomach pain, slowing of pulse, irregular hearbeat, dilation of pupils, bloody diarrhea, drowsiness. Also toxic is the smoke from burning the plant and water in which the flowers have been placed."

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