Madagascar Periwinkle
Catharanthus roseus 'Cora Cascade Polka Dot'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
16 inches
Width
34 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Tender perennial, grown as an annual
Native To
Madagascar
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, is a herbaceous annual with glossy, dark green ovate leaves and clusters of five-petaled flowers that display a mix of vibrant colors, often with distinctive spots or contrasting centers. The 'Cora Cascade Polka Dot' cultivar is distinguished by its trailing habit and unique polka dot pattern on its petals, making it an eye-catching choice for hanging baskets and container gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Place in full sun for best flowering
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
- Pinch back dead flowers to encourage rebloom
- Keep soil consistently moist during summer growth
Pro Tip
Start from seed indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Skip fertilizing in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Madagascar Periwinkle questions
What zones can Madagascar Periwinkle grow in?
Madagascar Periwinkle is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Madagascar Periwinkle deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Madagascar Periwinkle, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Madagascar Periwinkle bloom?
Madagascar Periwinkle typically blooms in summer to frost through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Madagascar Periwinkle need full sun?
Madagascar Periwinkle does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Madagascar Periwinkle drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Madagascar Periwinkle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Madagascar Periwinkle with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
