The oleander is native to the Mediterranean region. They come in shades from white to a dark pink. All parts of the oleander are poisonous if eaten and can cause skin irration if touched.     Oleanders in Texas Living in South Texas oleanders are everywhere. They are frequently planted along the medium strip of highways. The Toxic Oleander Oleanders are toxic plants. All parts are poisonous but the largest concentration is in the sap. Working with oleanders can cause skin irration. Even burning oleander branches and leaves can cause hazardous fumes. Oleanders in Tales There are many tales of people dying because of oleanders. Not all are legends. In 2001 a Los Angeles women was convicted of murdering her husband witht he help of the oleander. In 2000 2 toddlers in Los Angeles died from eating oleander leaves. Though beautiful to look at, take care around this deadly plant. Snopes.com: Urban Legends   The picture used for this page was taken by Deanna Henderson, myself, at the Texas Visitors Center in Harlingen, Texas on July 9, 2004 with a Canon Powershot A80. The graphics were made by me in PSP 8 on January 16, 2005.