Catharanthus roseus Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Apocynaceae

Stems:

Leaves:

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Calyx.

Fruits.

Flowering – May – September.

Habitat – Frequently cultivated and rarely escaped to old homesites and disturbed sites.

Origin – Native to Madagascar.

Other information – This attractive species species can be found cultivated throughout much of Alabama but is escaped in just a handful of counties. The plant is easy to identify becasue of its big flowers, shiny leaves, and paired fruits. The flowers are typically pink but white flowers are also common.
The genus name Catharanthus derives from the Greek “cathar” meaning “pure, immaculate” and “anthus” meaning “flower.”
The species epithet roseus derives from the Latin “rose” meaning “rose-colored, rosy.”

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken in Lochapocka, AL., 9-23-04.