Periwinkle

Common Name: Periwinkle

Local Name: Malikuruvaa (މަލިކުރުވާ)

Botanical/Scientific Name: Vinca, Catharanthus

Family Name: Apocynaceae

Other Names: Common Periwinkle, Madagascar Periwinkle

Description

Periwinkle is a flowering plant with glossy dark green leaves and showy flowers. The flowers come in various shades of pink, purple, and white, depending on the cultivar. They have a characteristic five-petaled, star-shaped appearance. Periwinkle is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.

Growing Conditions

Periwinkle thrives in warm climates and can tolerate a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. In the Maldives, it would likely grow well in coastal areas with sandy or loamy soil. It's important to provide regular watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Periwinkle is often cultivated as an annual or perennial depending on the local climate.