Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Catharanthus lanceus, the lance-leaf periwinkle, is a perennial evergreen shrub native to Madagascar, known for its glossy leaves and star-shaped white or pink flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering during cooler months when the plant's growth slows down significantly. Ensure good drainage to prevent over-saturation.
Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or leggy stems to improve air circulation and plant health.
Pruning can be done after flowering to encourage further blooms or in late winter before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems and plant them in moist potting mix. Rooting typically occurs within 3-4 weeks in warm conditions.
Keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight until established.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow the plant to establish before the main growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lance-Leaf Periwinkle (Catharanthus lanceus)
Where Lance-Leaf Periwinkle (Catharanthus lanceus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Catharanthus |
| Species | Catharanthus lanceus |
Similar in genus Catharanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
