Catharanthus roseus
Poisonous plant
Common names
tropical periwinkle, Madagascar periwinkle
Biostatus
Exotic
Conservation status
Not applicable
Category
Vascular
Structural class
Herbs - Dicotyledons other than Composites
Flower colours
Red/Pink, White
Detailed description
An annual with pink or white flowers (Landcare Research 1999).
Detailed taxonomy
Genus
Family
Synonyms
Vinca rosea
Endemic family
No
Ecology
Year naturalised
1910
Origin
Madagascar
Other information
Poisonous plant
This plant is very poisonous if eaten and can be hallucinogenic although used as a medicinal plant. In China it is used to treat diabetes and malaria.