Catharanthus roseus

(Pink Periwinkle)

Description

Formerly known as Vinca rosea this plant has become a weed around the area. It grows to about 50 cm in height, the opposite leaves are shiny with a pale midrib. When any part is broken a white latex is exuded. The flowers have a slender tube and the limb of the corolla is widely spreading, it may be white to pink or even red in colour. All parts of the plant are poisonous, chief toxins are cardiac glycosides. Flowers are present throughout most of the year.