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Oleander

Silverfox67Silverfox67 Posts: 4
in Plants
My daughter has been given a Oleader which she is thinking of planting next to her narrow boat where it is permanently moored on the opposite side of the tow path.
Some information has mentioned that Oleander is poisonous to humans and animals.
She also has two cats.
Would it be safe to plant?

Posts

  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    I'm Greek and we plant Oleanders like there's no tomorrow. I'm afraid like anything else the humans are responsible in supervising their animals. It's hideously toxic to humans and animals but it's also a wonderful plant. I have a couple at home and a cat but she's in a catio and not free roaming to shit in other people's gardens or get hit by a car. So it all depends on the local circumstances. 
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
  • Silverfox67Silverfox67 Posts: 4
    Many thanks for your reply.
     I have read how popular Oleander are in Mediterranean countries.
    What you have said about supervision of animals is exactly what my daughter has said in that as she will plant it not too close to her narrow/canal boat and in an area safe for her two cats.
  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    My cats have shared the back porch with my potted Oleanders for a number of years now and have never paid the plants the slightest attention or shown the slightest indisposition attributable to them :)
  • Silverfox67Silverfox67 Posts: 4
    Many thanks for your reply 
  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    The only conceivable danger to humans is if anyone tries to burn the leaves, but most will either compost them or put then in the green bin. Hope she enjoys planting it, they can be a bit touch and go for hardiness in the UK but my three year old potted specimen survived the -8°C of last winter with just a few damaged leaves. 
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
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