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Catharanthus

Catharanthus roseus

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Catharanthus, commonly called vinca or Madagascar periwinkle, is a heat- and drought-tolerant tender annual with glossy foliage and attractive five-petaled flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, or white. It blooms prolifically from early summer until frost and performs excellently in hot, dry conditions where other flowers struggle. This low-maintenance plant has been used in traditional medicine and modern pharmaceutical applications.

Catharanthus

Common Problems

Select the problem your Catharanthus is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Root Rotchevron_right
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Overwateringchevron_right
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Yellow Leaveschevron_right
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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light
Full sun (6+ hours daily); tolerates light shade but flowers best in strong sunlight
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Water
Drought-tolerant once established; water when soil surface is dry; reduce watering in winter
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Soil
Well-draining soil; prefers slightly sandy or lean soil; avoid waterlogged conditions
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Fertiliser
Light feeding every 4–6 weeks during growing season; excessive fertility reduces flowering
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Temperature
Warm to hot; 70–85°F ideal; dies at first frost (tender annual)
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Humidity
Low to moderate; tolerates dry air well

Toxicity

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Contains toxic alkaloids; all parts are poisonous if ingested; keep away from children and pets

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Catharanthus Care Guide — Catharanthus roseus | GreenScout