Re: shrubby vinca in the tropics
- To: "Diane Whitehead" , "Medit-Plants"
- Subject: Re: shrubby vinca in the tropics
- From: W* G*
- Date: Tue, 23 Nov 1999 09:55:08 -0500
Diane Whitehead wrote on 11/22/99 5:27 PM:
>About 20 years ago I grew a vinca from seed. I believe the name has since
>changed to Catharanthus. It has never flowered.
>It is listed in seed catalogues as a half-hardy annual that flowers well,
>even in the hottest weather. I suspect this means it will flower only if
>the weather is hot.
> I am curious as to how it grows in a warmer climate
>than here.
Catharanthus roseus (=Vinca rosea) has long been naturalized throughout
the tropics and in the West Indies is considered by some, including
myself at times, to be a weed since it sets seed readily and the wind
blows the seeds into every part of the garden. Everblooming throughout
the year in sun or light shade and in wet and dry times alike, and
difficult to eradicate once established. Rose-pink, and white with red
eye, are the flower colors most often seen in the Caribbean. Have been
thinking of trying the new Pacifica Red cultivar.
Warm regards,
William Glover
New York/Nevis, W.I. (zone 12, or perhaps 13, never below 70F/21C at any
rate)
