Madagascar periwinkle Catharanthus roseus
ABOUT
Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as the Madagascar periwinkle or simply periwinkle, is an evergreen plant characterized by glossy, dark green leaves which are oval to oblong in shape and have a leathery texture. This eye-catching plant boasts an array of beautiful flowers that can be found in various colors including pink, white, red, and purple. Each flower has five petals that often display a contrasting color in the center, such as a reddish or yellowish eye, which adds to their striking appearance. The blooms typically have a delicate, pinwheel-like form, which adds a touch of whimsy to the plant's overall aesthetic. The Madagascar periwinkle is also known for its hardiness and its ability to flourish under a wide range of conditions, making it a popular choice for both gardeners and landscapers looking for a drought-resistant and attractive plant. Despite its delicate appearance, it is quite a resilient plant that can add a splash of color to any setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apocynaceae.
Synonyms
Madagascar Periwinkle, Rose Periwinkle, Rosy Periwinkle, Cape Periwinkle, Old-Maid, Pink Periwinkle.
Common names
Ammocallis rosea, Lochnera rosea, Vinca rosea.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, is considered toxic if ingested. Humans consuming parts of this plant may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drops in blood pressure, and depression of the central nervous system. Ingesting large amounts can lead to more severe symptoms, including seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and potentially life-threatening conditions.
To pets
Madagascar periwinkle is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of this plant, they might exhibit vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, incoordination, depression, seizures, and possibly dangerous effects on the heart and blood pressure. Consumption should be considered an emergency, and veterinary attention is required immediately upon suspicion or signs of poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Madagascar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The plant, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, has glossy, green foliage and attractive star-shaped flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Resistance: Madagascar periwinkle is highly adaptable to dry conditions, making it suitable for regions with water scarcity or for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Heat Tolerance: It can withstand high temperatures, which makes it a favorable choice for hot climates and sunny spots in the garden.
- Ease of Care: This plant is known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, appealing to novice gardeners or those with limited gardening time.
- Soil Adaptability: It grows well in a variety of soil types, from sandy to loamy, as long as the soil is well-drained.
- Rapid Growth: Madagascar periwinkle is a fast-grower, offering quick coverage in landscaping projects or filling in garden spaces effectively.
- Insect Repellent: While not focused on its medical properties, the plant is sometimes noted for its ability to repel certain insects, making it beneficial for planting in outdoor living spaces.
- Non-Invasiveness: Unlike some other ornamentals, Madagascar periwinkle tends to stay contained within its planting area, reducing the need for frequent pruning or control.
Medical Properties- Antineoplastic agents: Catharanthus roseus is the source of two well-known chemotherapy drugs, vinblastine and vincristine, used in the treatment of various cancers.
- Antidiabetic effects: Some studies suggest compounds from the plant may have potential in managing diabetes, although this is not an approved use.
- Antihypertensive properties: Alkaloids from Catharanthus roseus have been studied for their potential role in lowering blood pressure.
- Antimicrobial activity: Extracts of this plant have been shown to exhibit some degree of antibacterial and antifungal properties in scientific studies.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: Catharanthus roseus can be used to repel certain insects and pests, thanks to its natural compounds that are unfavorable to these creatures.
- Ornamental Use: The vivid blooms of periwinkle make it a popular choice for cultivating as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks for aesthetic purposes.
- Ground Cover: Because of its spreading habit, periwinkle can serve as an effective and decorative ground cover to prevent soil erosion in landscaped areas.
- Religious and Cultural Significance: In some cultures, periwinkle flowers are used in religious ceremonies and cultural traditions.
- Dye Production: The flowers of periwinkle have been used historically to produce a dye for textiles, although it is not a common practice anymore.
- Memory Gardens: Periwinkle is often planted in memory gardens or cemeteries as a symbol of remembrance and eternal life.
- Bonsai: Periwinkle can be grown as a bonsai plant, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy its beauty in miniature form.
- Culinary Garnish: While not a common practice, the flowers can sometimes be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- Herbal Teas: In some traditional practices, parts of the plant excluding its roots and seeds have been used to create herbal teas, although this use is not widely recognized or suggested due to potential toxicity.
- Art: The attractive flowers of periwinkle are sometimes used in the art of flower pressing, wherein blooms are dried and pressed as part of craft and decorative projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Madagascar periwinkle is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Madagascar periwinkle is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, thrives in challenging conditions, often symbolizing the ability to persist and flourish despite obstacles.
- Beauty and Purity: With its delicate blossoms, the Madagascar periwinkle is often associated with purity of thought and the beauty of life's simple pleasures.
- Hope and Health: In traditional medicine, the Madagascar periwinkle is used to treat various ailments, making it a symbol of health and hope for recovery.
WaterMadagascar periwinkle requires moderate watering, and the regimen largely depends on the climate and soil moisture. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which may be about once a week. Adjust the frequency of watering during hotter, drier periods to possibly twice a week, ensuring that the soil doesn't dry out completely. Use enough water to soak the soil to the root level, which might be around 1-2 gallons depending on the size of the plant and pot. During winter, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging, as Madagascar periwinkle is sensitive to root rot in cold, damp soil.
LightMadagascar periwinkle thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. If growing indoors, place it near a south-facing window where it will receive ample sunlight to promote blooming. Avoid deep shade locations as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureMadagascar periwinkle prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate cold well. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as it is not frost-tolerant. During winter or cold nights, it's best to bring the plant indoors or provide protection from the cold.
PruningPrune Madagascar periwinkle to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Cut back leggy stems and spent flowers throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy and to stimulate additional flowering. The best time for significant pruning is in the early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done every few weeks or as needed when the plant appears overgrown or untidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Madagascar periwinkle should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingMadagascar periwinkle should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Humidity & MistingMadagascar periwinkle prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity conditions common in home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Madagascar periwinkle begins with seed germination, triggered by warm temperatures and moist soil conditions. Once germinated, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system, followed by the development of foliage as it enters the vegetative growth stage. After vegetative growth, Madagascar periwinkle enters the flowering stage, usually within a few months, producing five-petaled flowers that can be white to pink with a darker center. Following pollination, either by insects or through self-fertilization, the plant develops seed pods that eventually dry and release seeds. These seeds can then disperse to start a new cycle if the environmental conditions are suitable. Madagascar periwinkle is a perennial in warm climates, but it is often treated as an annual in cooler regions where it cannot survive the winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as the Madagascar periwinkle or just periwinkle, is through seed. Propagation time is ideally in the spring as the weather begins to warm. To propagate periwinkle by seed, you would begin by sowing the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly with soil, usually no more than 1/16 inch (about 1.5 millimeters) deep. The soil should be kept consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 10 to 14 days. After the seedlings have developed a few pairs of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. It's essential to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting them out to prevent shock, a process known as hardening off. The young plants will benefit from a location that receives full sun to partial shade and regular watering until they are well established.
