Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus Roseus) is a perennial (grown as annual in temperate zones) herb in the Apocynaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets. It can be grown indoors.

A tropical perennial herb with glossy green leaves and five-petaled flowers in shades of pink, white, or purple.

Madagascar Periwinkle

Madagascar Periwinkle

Catharanthus Roseus

A tropical perennial herb with glossy green leaves and five-petaled flowers in shades of pink, white, or purple.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial (grown as annual in temperate zones)
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
10-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, specimen, bedding plant

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Madagascar Periwinkle

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Madagascar Periwinkle
Madagascar Periwinkle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Apocynaceae
Genus:Catharanthus