Here's a detailed description of the Periwinkle plant:

🌿 Periwinkle Plant Description

Common Name: Periwinkle
Scientific Names:

Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar Periwinkle) – most commonly referred to today

Vinca major and Vinca minor – European periwinkle species

✅ 1. Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar Periwinkle)
🔸 Family: Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
🔸 Type: Evergreen herbaceous plant or subshrub
🔸 Origin: Native to Madagascar; now naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions
✅ Botanical Description:

Height: 1–2.5 feet (30–75 cm) tall

Leaves: Glossy, oval, dark green leaves arranged oppositely

Flowers:

Shape: Five-petaled, pinwheel-like flowers

Colors: Usually pink, white, red, or purple with a contrasting eye in the center

Blooming Season: Blooms year-round in warm climates

Fruit: Slender pair of follicles containing small seeds

✅ Habitat & Growing Conditions:

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil

Water: Drought-tolerant once established; prefers moderate watering

Climate: Thrives in warm climates (USDA Zones 9–11); grown as an annual in cooler zones

✅ Uses:

Ornamental: Commonly used in garden beds, borders, containers, and as ground cover

Medicinal:

Contains alkaloids (e.g., vincristine and vinblastine) used in chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer

Toxic if ingested in large amounts; keep away from pets and children

✅ 2. Vinca major / Vinca minor (European Periwinkle)
🔸 Type: Ground-covering vine
🔸 Flowers: Purple or blue, star-like, with five petals
🔸 Leaves: Glossy, dark green, oval or lance-shaped
🔸 Use: Often used for erosion control and ornamental ground cover in temperate climates
🔸 Note: Can be invasive in some regions
⚠️ Caution:

While beautiful, many parts of the periwinkle plant (especially Catharanthus roseus) are toxic if ingested, and the sap may irritate skin. Handle with care.