Botanical Name

Catharanthus roseus

Commonly known as Annual Vinca

Annual

Glossy-leaved heat champion (botanically unrelated to true Vinca minor) that blooms through humidity that wilts everything else.

Quick Reference
Bloom Season
May to Nov
USDA Zones
3-11
Sun
Full Sun or Part Sun
Water
Low - drought tolerant
Mature Height
6-18"
Bloom Colors
PinkWhiteRedPurple
Low Maintenance Container Friendly Deer Resistant
Read the full Annual Vinca growing guide →

Companion plants, planting tips, FAQ, and more

About This Name

Catharanthus roseus is the scientific name used by botanists, nurseries, and seed catalogs to identify Annual Vinca unambiguously. The genus Catharanthus places it within a specific plant family, and using the botanical name avoids the confusion that comes with regional common names. If you're shopping for Annual Vinca, looking up plant care details, or comparing varieties, searching by Catharanthus roseus will give you the most precise results.