Vinca, Madagascar Periwinkle

Scientific Name: Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don
Synonym: Vinca rosea
Family: Apocynaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
Sunset®: All zones as annual
USDA: All zones as annual

Frost Tolerance: Semi tender, needs a protected area

Heat Tolerance: Resistant if receiving only morning sun

Sun Exposure: Light shade in Phoenix

Origin: Madagascar, Mauritius

Growth Habits: Perennial to 2 feet high (60 cm)

Flowers: Pink or red flowers

Watering Needs: Regular water

Propagation: Seeds, occasionally by cuttings

As many other plants of the dogbane family, the Vincas are poisonous, although mildly. There are also 2 drugs extracted from it: vinblastine (used in the treatment of Hodgkins' disease) and vincristine (used in the treatment of leukemia).

Blooming Habits:
They need warmth, and limited water and fertilizer to bloom abundantly, instead of just growing.

Culture:
These Vincas can survive winter, but they might look leggy and ragged, growing slowly in the spring. Depending how protected they are, it might be best to just replacing them. Check for snails and slugs

Propagation:
Start inside at 70-85°F (21-29°C). The seeds take one to 3 weeks to germinate, and then grow slowly. Plant after 10 weeks, 12 inches apart (30 cm).