Madagascar Periwinkle
Catharanthus roseusfam. Apocynaceae
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Pl. 3FF2 — Catharanthus roseus
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IOverview
Overview
Madagascar Periwinkle, known botanically as Catharanthus roseus, is a perennial plant native to Madagascar. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This hardy plant grows up to 0.7 meters tall and is valued both for its ornamental appeal and medicinal properties. The leaves are edible, making it a versatile addition to gardens and culinary dishes. Additionally, Madagascar Periwinkle has been used in traditional medicine, highlighting its dual role as an ornamental and medicinal plant.
Quick answers
What is Madagascar Periwinkle?
Madagascar Periwinkle, known botanically as Catharanthus roseus, is a perennial plant native to Madagascar. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This hardy plant grows up to 0.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming effects.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Madagascar Periwinkle thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 0.7 meters tall and is hardy in zones 9-12, making it suitable for subtropical climates. To propagate, use cuttings from the plant's leaves. The edible parts are its leaves, which can be enjoyed as a green vegetable or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-12
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.7 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Madagascar Periwinkle for the first time
7steps
Start with Madagascar Periwinkle as a simple, low-maintenance plant for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or directly sow in warm weather. Transplant outdoors when plants are about 5 cm (2 inches) tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and place in a sunny spot, ensuring it receives full to partial sun daily.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced plant food.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and remove dead leaves as needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Animal feed
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 29 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 29 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 1 native· 29 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Spain
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)CambodiaChinaIndia
Americas3 regions
introduced (3)BahamasBelizeCosta Rica
Africa7 regions
native (1)Madagascar
introduced (6)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoCameroonChadComoros
Broader regions
introduced:Andaman Is., Argentina Northeast, Aruba, Ascension, Chagos Archipelago, Borneo, California, Cape Provinces, Caroline Is., Cayman Is., Central American Pac, Aldabra, Christmas I., Cook Is., Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
3 related
See also
3 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Apocynaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Apocynaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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