Light. Full sun gives the most blooms.
Water. Water while it establishes, then only as needed. It likes to stay on the dry side; frequent watering rots the roots, especially in the rainy season.
Soil and feeding. Any well-drained soil works, acidic or slightly alkaline. In containers, use a well-drained mix such as Potting Soil.
Size. Grows to about 2 ft tall and wide, depending on variety. Space plants 12–18 inches apart.
Problems to watch. Root rot, stem rot, blight and dieback follow overwatering and crowding. Avoid overhead watering. The Cora and Nirvana series resist disease.
Good to know. Usually grown as an annual, it seldom lasts beyond one summer and may reseed. All parts contain vinca alkaloids, which cause symptoms if eaten in large amounts.
Sources: UF/IFAS Ask IFAS (EDIS): FP112 Catharanthus roseus: Periwinkle, Madagascar Periwinkle, Vinca · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Periwinkles
