plant close up1 ( photo / image / picture from Homewrecker's Garden ) almost full pic ( photo / image / picture from Homewrecker's Garden ) Here's two images, I know its a pretty common plant I just can't find the name, its about 12ft tall now, all branches go to a central trunk which appears to be below ground.
I'm not sure, but it definitely needs to be trimmed and I want to be sure what it is and the best way to trim it before I start. It looks like the previous owner just hacked away by some of the previous scars and cuts.
After looking more at oleanders I believe you are right kuntrygal, thanks, and its nice to know how hardy they are, because this plant is out of control, but the wife was afraid if I trimmed too much I would kill it. Gonna trim and try to get come growt from that to plant elsewhere. Thanks again....
Oleander is one of the most poisonous plants in the world, so the previous owner may have had children and was trying to kill the plant. Be careful cutting it back, all parts of the plant are toxic. Even after it is dry, the toxins are still dangerous.