Madagascar Periwinkle

Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus)

Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus), also known as Bright Eyes, or Graveyard Plant, is a resilient and heat-loving flowering plant prized for its continuous blooms and drought tolerance. With its glossy green foliage and a variety of vibrant flower colors, this easy-care plant is perfect for garden beds, borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Madagascar Periwinkle is known for its five-petaled, star-like flowers in shades of pink, white, red, and purple. The plants bloom from spring through frost, maintaining a tidy, mounded habit. Highly adaptable, it thrives in hot, dry conditions where other plants may struggle, making it a top choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
• Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
• Water: Low to moderate watering needs; drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Tolerant of various humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (grown as an annual in cooler climates).

Ideal Uses

• Garden Beds & Borders: Provides continuous color throughout the growing season.
• Containers & Hanging Baskets: Thrives in pots, adding bright blooms to patios and balconies.
• Ground Cover: Forms a dense, flowering mat in warm climates.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies.

Low Maintenance Care

Madagascar Periwinkle is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care beyond occasional watering and fertilizing.

• Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
• Propagation: Grown from seeds or cuttings.

Why Choose Madagascar Periwinkle?

With its vibrant, season-long blooms, heat resistance, and low-maintenance nature, Madagascar Periwinkle is an excellent choice for any sunny garden.

• Continuous Blooms: Flowers from spring until frost.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in dry, sunny conditions.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond watering and fertilizing.
• Versatile Placement: Suitable for garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets.

For those looking for a colorful, resilient, and easy-care plant, Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is an outstanding choice.