Water
Water Madagascar Periwinkle regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage in pots and reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.
Also known as Bright-Eyes · Cape Periwinkle · Cayenne Jasmine
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is a popular flowering plant known for its vibrant blooms and medicinal properties. It thrives in warm climates and is often g
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-24°C; sensitive to frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains vincristine and vinblastine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and other symptoms if ingested. Skin contact may cause irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Madagascar Periwinkle regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage in pots and reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.
Prune Madagascar Periwinkle to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back leggy stems regularly. Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Light pruning can be done anytime, while heavier pruning is best in spring.
Madagascar Periwinkle can be easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cuttings root readily in moist, well-draining soil or water.
Repot Madagascar Periwinkle every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in its new container.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Catharanthus |
| Species | Catharanthus roseus |
Similar in genus Catharanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
