Catharanthus roseus

Species of flowering plant known as Madagascar periwinkle

Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as the Madagascar periwinkle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Madagascar but is widely cultivated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Description

A white colored Catharanthus roseus flower

Catharanthus roseus is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant growing to 1 m (3 ft 3 in) tall. The leaves are oval to oblong, 2.5–9 cm (1–3.5 in) long and 1–3.5 cm (0.4–1.4 in) broad, glossy green, hairless, with a pale midrib and a short petiole 1–1.8 cm (0.4–0.7 in) long; they are arranged in opposite pairs.

The flowers are white to dark pink with a darker red center, with a basal tube 2.5–3 cm (1–1.2 in) long and a corolla 2–5 cm (0.8–2 in) diameter with five petal-like lobes. The fruit is a pair of follicles 2–4 cm (0.8–1.6 in) long and 3 mm (0.1 in) broad.

Distribution and habitat

Close-up view of Catharanthus roseus in West Bengal, India

Catharanthus roseus is native to Madagascar but has been widely cultivated and has become naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It is often found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and gardens.

Cultivation

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Catharanthus in Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Catharanthus roseus is cultivated for its attractive flowers and glossy foliage. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position, although it can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering.

Uses

A Catharanthus roseus bush in Hyderabad, Pakistan

Catharanthus roseus has been used in traditional medicine in various cultures. It is known for its alkaloids, which have been used in the treatment of cancer. The plant contains over 70 different alkaloids, including vincristine and vinblastine, which are used in chemotherapy.

Toxicity

The plant is toxic if ingested, and care should be taken to avoid consumption by humans and animals. The sap can also cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Gallery

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  Catharanthus roseus with raindrops

• Catharanthus roseus in bloom

• Madagascar periwinkle

Related pages

• Apocynaceae
• Vincristine
• Vinblastine