Vinca rosea

Vinca rosea (also known as Catharanthus roseus, Madagascar periwinkle, or rosy periwinkle) is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Madagascar, but is grown around the world as an ornamental plant and has been naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions.

Description

Vinca rosea is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. The leaves are oval to oblong, 2.5–9 cm long and 1–3.5 cm broad, glossy green, hairless, with a pale midrib and a short petiole 1–1.8 cm long. The flowers are white to dark pink with a darker red centre, with a basal tube 2.5–3 cm long and a corolla 2–5 cm diameter with five petal-like lobes.

Cultivation and uses

Vinca rosea is widely cultivated and is available as a landscape bedding plant in tropical and subtropical climates. It has become naturalized in southern and eastern Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It thrives in full sun and hot, dry environments. It is resistant to most pests and diseases and can tolerate poor soil and drought conditions.

In addition to its ornamental value, Vinca rosea is notable for the production of vinca alkaloids, which are a class of anti-cancer drugs. These include vincristine and vinblastine, both of which are used in chemotherapy.

Medicinal uses

The plant was traditionally used in Madagascar for a variety of ailments. Today, the plant's medicinal properties are being investigated. The plant contains over 70 alkaloids, including vincristine and vinblastine, both of which are used in the treatment of leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Conservation status

Despite its wide distribution, Vinca rosea is classified as endangered in its native Madagascar, due to habitat loss and overharvesting for its medicinal properties.

See also

• List of plants used in herbalism
• List of garden plants

References

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