Catharanthus

Family Apocynaceae. Native to humid tropical forests, mainly the island of Madagascar. Only five species of this attractively flowering plant occur in nature. In cultivation the species pink catharanthus or pink periwinkle — Catharanthus roseus.

This is a small perennial semi-shrub, typically growing to about 60 cm in height. It has erect, branching stems with opposite, elongate-lanceolate leaves, dark green in color with a lighter central vein, up to 7 cm long.

The flowers are simple, with five petals, pink, lilac or white in color, in appearance similar to impatiens (balsam) or the garden balsam known as "Vanka-mokry." Under favorable conditions Catharanthus can bloom from May until late September.



Temperature: Catharanthus is warmth-loving, about 25-27 °C in summer, in winter not below 14°C, optimal 15-18°C. It does not tolerate cooling of the root system. In summer it is better to place the plant outdoors in the garden or on a balcony.

Light: Catharanthus requires a very bright sunny location, with some direct sunlight. It grows well on east and west windows. Introduce bright spring sun gradually.

Watering: Catharanthus is watered fairly abundantly throughout the year; the soil should not dry out, but avoid excessive dampness.

Fertilizer: When flowers and new leaves form, Catharanthus is fed with a special fertilizer for ornamental flowering plants, adding it to the watering water. Feed about 3 times a month.

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