Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’

Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’: A Vibrant, Low-Maintenance Addition to Your Garden

Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ is a compact, mounded, and upright herbaceous annual. It typically reaches a height of 10 to 14 inches (25 to 36 cm) and spreads 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) wide. Its glossy, dark green leaves are oval-shaped and provide a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers.

The plant is most notable for its showy, round, single-type blooms, which measure 4.5 to 5 cm in diameter. The flowers are a soft apricot-peach color. They have a striking rose-pink eye, creating a beautiful contrast that draws attention in any garden setting. Although the flowers are unscented, their bright and cheerful appearance more than compensates for the lack of fragrance. These blooms appear from late spring through mid-fall, providing continuous color throughout the growing season.

The leaves of ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ are elongated with an undulate margin and a mucronate tip, adding to the plant’s ornamental appeal. The crosswise opposite leaf arrangement is characteristic of the species, contributing to the plant’s dense and bushy growth habit.

Background and Plant Family

Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar Periwinkle or Vinca, is a member of the Apocynaceae family, a large and diverse family of flowering plants that includes oleander and frangipani. Native to Madagascar, this species has become a popular ornamental plant worldwide due to its vibrant flowers and robust nature. It performs well in warm climates, where it can provide continuous color throughout the growing season.

The ‘Pacifica XP‘ series is a cultivated group within the Catharanthus roseus species, known for its uniform growth habit. It provides an excellent garden performance and a wide range of colors. Among these, ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ stands out with its unique and captivating flower coloration, making it a favorite choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscapes or containers.

Care Instructions for Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’:

Light Requirements:
Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, this produces more flowers. In regions with intense afternoon sun, some partial shade may help prevent leaf scorching and extend the blooming period.

Soil and Watering:
This Vinca variety prefers well-drained soil with average to slightly acidic pH. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, as long as the drainage is good. Catharanthus roseus is poplular for its exceptional heat and drought tolerance, but it performs best with regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. Be careful to avoid overwatering, as the plant does not tolerate standing water, which can lead to root rot.

Temperature and Hardiness:
While Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ is a tropical plant, it is grown as an annual in most regions, as it is not frost-hardy. It can withstand temperatures down to 0°F (-17.8°C), but it will not survive frost. In colder climates, plant it after the last frost in spring so it continues to thrive until the first frost in fall. In USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11, consider it a perennial.

Fertilization:
To encourage robust growth and prolific blooming, fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce feeding as the weather cools and the plant’s growth slows.

Pruning and Maintenance:
Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. However, occasional deadheading (removing spent flowers) can help promote continuous blooming. If the plant becomes leggy, you can trim back the stems slightly to encourage a bushier growth habit. The plant is generally deer-resistant and not prone to serious pest or disease problems.

Propagation of Catharanthus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’:

Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, though it is important to note that as a cultivated variety, there may be restrictions on propagation.

Seeds:

1. Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
2. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and cover the seeds lightly with soil.
3. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 75-80°F (24-27°C) for germination.
4. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden after the danger of frost has passed.

Cuttings:

1. Take softwood cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems in late spring or early summer.
2. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development.
3. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, humid environment out of direct sunlight.
4. Once roots have developed, usually within 4-6 weeks, the new plant can be potted up and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.

Conclusion

Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ is a versatile and visually stunning addition to any garden or container. Its mounded, upright habit, coupled with its vibrant apricot-peach flowers and dark green foliage, make it a standout in both garden beds and pots. Easy to care for and drought-tolerant, this Vinca variety is perfect for gardeners looking for a reliable, low-maintenance plant that delivers color and charm all summer long. Whether used in mass plantings, borders, hanging baskets, or containers, ‘Pacifica XP Apricot’ will bring a burst of life and beauty to your outdoor space.