Genus Catharanthus (Madagascar periwinkle, Vinca)

Catharanthus roseus 'Peach' Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais

kath-ar-AN-thus Common Name: Madagascar periwinkle, Vinca

In the genus Cataranthus are eight species of annuals and perennials from Madagascar with 5-petaled flowers that resemble periwinkles. Vinca are popular summer bedding plants, and they can also be used in containers, in a cool greenhouse, or as houseplants. Grow in a bed or border in frost-free regions.
Noteworthy characteristics: 5-petaled, periwinkle-like flowers.
Care: Grow in well-drained soil of moderate fertility in full sun or partial shade. Indoors, grow in full light in an area with good ventilation. Water sparingly in winter.
Propagation: Sow seed at 55° to 64°F in early spring. Root softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Problems: Aerial blights, stem rot, leaf spots, aster yellows, tomato spotted wilt virus. Dodder is common in some regions. Under glass, watch for spider mites and whiteflies.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Catharanthus

Catharanthus roseus 'Peach'
(Madagascar periwinkle, Old maid) Be the first to rate this plant

A tender perennial native to Madagascar, most often grown as an annual, Catharanthus roseus has attractive, glossy foliage and a bushy form that is covered by phlox-like flowers from summer to first frost. It is a very popular bedding plant and works in containers as well. Many cultivars are vividly colored, but 'Peach' has subtle pale pink-peach flowers with a darker eye.

Catharanthus roseus Cora™ series
(Cora™ periwinkle, Cora™ vinca) (1 user review)

Hardiness Zones:

1

2

3

4

5

6

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8

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11

The disease-resistant Cora™ series of periwinkles comes in a range of flower colors—from white to lavender to burgundy—and looks great until the first fall frost.

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