Madagascar Periwinkle, Rosy Periwinkle

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don

cath-ar-ANTH-us ROSE-ee-us

Apocynaceae

Explanation of name: Catharanthus comes from Greek, for pure flower. Roseus means rosy.

Natural range: Africa; naturalized in Florida

Recognition: Often confused with: Vinca (different genus, also called “Periwinkle”). Slightly woody subshrub with salverform flowers (usually rosy pink, or white, or mixed colors). Fruits paired, cigarette-shaped. Sap clear. ‘Brighteyes’ is a dwarf white cultivar. ‘Coquette’ is a rose-colored dwarf cultivar. ARM has an extensive cultivar list.

Landscape uses: Bedding plant, ground cover, borders, hanging baskets. Reliable, drought-tolerant, colorful flowers. Prefers dryish conditions; excess water, such as from lawn sprinklers, can cause trouble.  This is a plant indigenous to dry habitats. Toxic. Escaped from cultivation.

Note: This species is the source of the cancer drugs vincristine and vinblastine.