Madagascar periwinkle
Catharanthus roseus · Apocynaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant madagascar periwinkle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Catharanthus roseus
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Origin
- Madagascar
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial, often grown as an annual
- Foliage
- Evergreen, glossy green
- Flowering
- May to October (long flowering period)
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Not hardy, frost-sensitive (grow as annual or bring indoors in winter)
Care
Light and exposure
Place your periwinkle in a very sunny location, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It tolerates partial shade but flowers less abundantly. Choose a warm spot protected from cold winds that can weaken its vigor.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing and flowering periods, without allowing water to stagnate. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter if the plant is kept indoors.
Soil and drainage
Use well-draining, light, and organic-rich soil. A mix of universal potting soil with added perlite or sand works perfectly. The plant hates waterlogged conditions that cause rot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing and flowering periods (May to September). Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter. Light feeding is sufficient; over-fertilizing harms flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back the tips of young plants in spring to encourage a fuller shape and better branching. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to stimulate new bloom production.
Pests and diseases
Watch for whiteflies and spider mites, especially indoors. Powdery mildew can appear in humid environments. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage if problems arise.
Did you know?
Madagascar periwinkle is far more than just an ornamental flower: it contains alkaloids used in the manufacture of certain cancer treatments, discovered during scientific research in phytotherapy. Used traditionally in Malagasy medicine for centuries, it has revolutionized modern medicine through these remarkable properties.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Lesser periwinkleVinca minor
- Greater periwinkleVinca major
- OleanderNerium oleander
- Asiatic jasmineTrachelospermum asiaticum
- Star jasmineTrachelospermum jasminoides
- AmatunguluCarissa macrocarpa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.