Family: Apocynaceae Form: Herb / Vine Origin: Native to Madagascar Weed Type(s): Weed, Naturalised, Introduced, Garden Escape, Environmental Weed, Cultivation Escape

Photo: G. Batianoff

Notes: Pink periwinkle is closely related to Blue periwinkle, a major weed in temperate areas. Pink periwinkle is an upright herbaceous perennial. The dark green, lance-shaped leaves have a paler mid rib. The pale pink flowers are borne profusely. There are several horticultural forms selected for their flower colour.

Seeds are dispersed by ants, wind and water. It was first recorded as naturalised in South-east Queensland in 1909 and is widely spread from North Queensland south to the NSW border. It is abundant on Magnetic Island.

It has been ranked no. 62 out of 200 invasive naturalised environmental weed species in south-east Queensland. It is readily available in nurseries.

References:

Randall, R. P. (2002). A Global Compendium of Weeds. R. G. & F.J. Richardson, Melbourne.
Batianoff, G. N. and Butler, D. W. (2002). Assessment of invasive naturalized plants in south-east Queensland. Plant Protection Quarterly 17(1): 27-34.
Batianoff, G. N. (2004). Personal communication.