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FIGURE 42.—Oleander (Nerium oleander L.) 
lengthwise; they are 6 inches long and about 14 inch thick. They 
turn light tan at maturity, and split lengthwise releasing many small, 
fuzzy seeds, which become windborne. The plants are highly sus- 
ceptible to repeated attacks by scale insects. They are propagated by 
seeds or cuttings, usually the latter. 
Disrreution AND Haprrat.—Oleander is commonly grown as an 
ornamental shrub throughout the Virgin Islands. The general hardi- 
ness of the plants makes them suitable as attractive shrubs under a 
wide range of environmental conditions. The plants require well- 
drained but moisture-retentive soils. Their tolerance to alkaline soils 
is demonstrated by their doing well in dry areas on shallow soils 
underlain by marl. Oleander is planted in flower gardens, parks, 
ballparks, and parade grounds, and along highways. “Tt occurs occa- 
sionally as a weed in waste grounds and abandoned house sites, and 
along streambeds. Its attractive foliage and many-colored flowers 
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