Definition

Noun: 1. A highly poisonous tropical American shrub or small tree: This term refers to a specific evergreen plant species native to tropical America. It is characterized by its glossy, dark green, narrow leaves and its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, which range in color from yellow to orange or peach. All parts of this plant contain potent cardiac glycosides and are extremely toxic if ingested.

Usage Notes

• This is a scientific botanical name (binomial nomenclature). In everyday language, the plant is more commonly known by names like yellow oleander, lucky nut, or be-still tree.
• It is primarily used in formal, academic, or horticultural contexts (e.g., botany, toxicology, gardening).
• Due to its high toxicity, it is often discussed with warnings. It is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant in warm climates but must be handled with extreme caution.

Examples

• Scientific/Descriptive:
  • The garden featured a specimen of Thevetia neriifolia with beautiful peach-colored blossoms.
  • All parts of Thevetia neriifolia contain thevetin, a dangerous cardiac toxin.
• Cautionary:
  • Parents in tropical regions are warned to keep children away from Thevetia neriifolia, commonly planted as a hedge.

Advanced Usage

• The genus name "" honors André Thevet, a French Franciscan priest and explorer. The species epithet "" means "with leaves like " (the oleander genus), describing its foliage.
• In toxicology and medicine, it is cited in case studies of plant poisoning.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Names: yellow oleander, lucky nut, be-still tree, Mexican oleander.
• Scientific Synonyms: (an alternative scientific classification).
• Thevetia (n): The genus to which this plant belongs.
• Thevetin (n): The primary toxic glycoside found in this plant.

Synonyms

• Yellow oleander (This is the most widely recognized common name and a direct synonym in non-scientific contexts).

Related Phrases / Terms

• Cardiac glycoside: The class of toxic compounds found in .
• Ornamental shrub: A category describing one of its uses in landscaping.
• Plant poisoning: A general term for the medical condition it can cause.

Noun

1. tropical American shrub or small tree having glossy dark green leaves and fragrant saffron yellow to orange or peach- colored flowers; all parts highly poisonous