Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus 'Peach') kath-ar-AN-thus ROSE-ee-us Synonyms:  Vinca rosea Genus:  Catharanthus A tender perennial native to Madagascar, most often grown as an annual, Catharanthus roseus has attractive, glossy foliage and a bushy form that is covered by phlox-like flowers from summer to first frost. It is a very popular bedding plant and works in containers as well. Many cultivars are vividly colored, but 'Peach' has subtle pale pink-peach flowers with a darker eye. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Peachy, five-petaled flowers on a bushy, glossy-leaved perennial, typically grown as an annual. All parts of the plant can cause severe discomfort if ingested. Care:  Grow in well-drained soil of moderate fertility in full sun or partial shade. To insure good flower production, do not overwater or overfertilize. Indoors, grow in full light with good ventilation. Water sparingly in winter. Propagation:  Sow seed in early spring at 55° to 64°F. Root semi-ripe cuttings in summer or softwood cuttings in late spring. Problems:  Aerial blights, stem rot, leaf spots, aster yellows, and tomato spotted wilt virus can occur, while dodder is common in certain regions. If grown under glass, spider mites and whiteflies may be problematic.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Pink Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Suitable as Annual, Poisonous Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials