| Description | Sun Devil Extreme series Madagascar Periwinkle (catharanthus roseus) is a series of with large flowers, good basal branch and disease resistance. |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Annuals, Site author's observations |
| Hardiness Zone | 10-11 |
| Sunlight | full, mostly sunny |
| Moisture | average to slightly dry once established |
| Soil & Site | average not soggy |
| Growing Media | average patio |
| Temperature | a tender annual, doesn't like cold weather or frost |
| Flowers | tubular, large up to 2", colors: Blush, Red, Grape, Hot Pink, Orchid, Peppermint, Rose, Pink |
| Leaves | lance-shaped, glossy green. |
| Stems | good basal branching |
| Roots | fibrous |
| Dimensions | 10-12 by 10-12 inches, upright mounding |
| Propagation | Sometimes but not always can be a difficult plant to grow from seed. Young plants are not tolerable of wetness or cool conditions. Can be rooted from cutting. |
| Native Site | species native to Madagascar |
| Misc Facts | In the 18th century it first appeared in France at Paris Jardin des Plaines. At this time Madagascar was a French possession. Author's Notes When attending an Environmental Workshop with a group of students, the keynote speaker was talking about how from native plants chemicals were discovered that are used in treatment of many different diseases. If the plant species is lost the potential to discover these chemicals will be lost. He alluded to the fact that he had Leukemia and was cured because of the chemical vincristine. Vincristine is extracted from Madagascar periwinkle AKA: Heat Extreme series, Vinca, Vinca rosea |
| Author's Notes | I have used Madagascar Periwinkle in many annual gardens. I quickly learned this plant will die at the first hint of frost. It is good to mix in other plants in your garden. |
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