The house I grew up in had an oleander in the backyard. I think the blossoms were red, but I'm not sure. The one thing I vividly remember though was that this shrub was off limits and we were not allowed to play near it. Oleander is poisonous if ingested and my parents didn't want to take any chances. I was convinced from their warnings that just touching the leaves was dangerous.
It's not surprising then to learn that I've never been a big fan of this shrub...until recently. I've noticed it's used a lot in landscaping in Matagorda and Palacios. It seems to grow effortlessly on the Texas Gulf coast and looks great in a beach setting. In my dreams I see myself living in a house near the beach one day with an oleander in the backyard. Hey, it could happen.
It's supposed to have a lovely scent, right?
ReplyDeleteIt could and I predict it will!
ReplyDeleteI hope it happens for you... but then what would you tell your future grandkids about those bushes?
ReplyDeleteI've always thought that oleander were very pretty, but I only ever see them while traveling since our climate is too cool for them. My parents wouldn't let us play near the mountain laurels, and I thought that touching the leaves was dangerous too. Imagine my horror when my dad touched it one day!
ReplyDeleteI never knew they were poisonous! But then I didn't grow up in the south! They look pretty though!
ReplyDeleteSo lovely...for dangerous things, they are hauntingly beautiful...My your wish come true some! Dreams do have a way of coming true :o) Happy weekend to you all ((HUGS))
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of this plant before: it sounds intriguing.
ReplyDeleteI wonder how that bush would grow in Michigan's climate. Thanks for the kind words earlier in the week...and for all your comments. This is too much fun. Have a peaceful weekend.
ReplyDeleteAmy
I just found your blog, I believe through "Home Acre", and I am enjoying it so much! I am adding you to my list. Knitting, what could be grander?
ReplyDeleteOleanders are pretty, and they come in different colors. They are VERY drought resistant, and a whole grove of them provide an excellent privacy wall as well as alee from the winds. I only have one, a pink one. They do tend to self sow. The one I have showed up as a volunteer.
I recently got the opportunity to smell oleander flowers. The scent reminded me of something from my childhood... Please tell me that I'm not the only one that thinks Oleander smells just like Play-Doh!
ReplyDeleteI've heard of oleander all my life, but I don't think I've ever seen it.
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice dream, Tracy. :-)