Vinca is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae. The flower is native to Europe, northwest Africa and southwest Asia. Vinca (Catharanthus roseus), commonly referred to as Periwinkle, is an evergreen perennial that blooms in the spring and summer. Popular as a groundcover, Vinca is a favorite choice of gardeners.
All parts of Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) are considered poisonous to humans, dogs, cats, and horses. Of the 30 different species of Periwinkle plants cultivated, not all varieties are poisonous. Vinca major and Vinca minor rarely show mild toxicity, while Catharanthus roseus is a highly poisonous variety.
Common names for Catharanthus roseus are:
- Cape periwinkle
- Ammocallis rosea
- Catharanthine
- Catharanthus
- Catharanthus roseus
- Pink periwinkle
- Pervenche rose
- Old maid
- Lochnera rosea
- Magdalena
- Myrtle
The Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) plant contains alkaloids which can be utilized in chemotherapy treatments or used in medicines that treat diabetes and high blood pressure. These naturally produced toxic alkaloids in the plant can cause poisoning if ingested by humans, dogs, cats, or horses. Vinca plants are safe when handled and do not cause any harm when touched. It is best to wash your hands after planting or pruning to remove any toxins that you may have come in contact with.
Are Vinca Poisonous to Children
All parts of Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) are considered poisonous to children. If any part of the plant is ingested by small children or adults, you should consult a doctor of Poison Control as soon as possible. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Stomach cramps
- Cardiac symptoms
- Reduced blood pressure
- Systematic paralysis or death.
It is best to keep your children away from areas where Vinca is planted. To avoid exposure to this plant, it should not be grown in areas where small children frequent such as preschool flower gardens, parks, patio/pool areas, or common area houseplants.
Are Vinca Poisonous to Dogs
Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) is considered by the ASPCA as a toxic plant to dogs and their puppies. Depending on the level of exposure or the amount ingested, severe poisoning can occur. All parts of the plant contain vinca alkaloids, which can cause the following symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Depression
Ingesting any part of a Vinca plant, in any amount, is cause for concern and can cause severe poisoning. Immediately contact your local veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline (855) 764-7661.
Are Vinca Poisonous to Cats
Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) is considered by the ASPCA as a toxic plant to cats and their kittens. Depending on the level of exposure or the amount ingested, severe poisoning can occur in feline friends. Symptoms to look out for are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Depression
The good thing about Vinca is that it does not taste very good. Curious cats that nibble on the plant will soon move on as they find the plant unappetizing. Usually this small sample and the stomach upset from it will pass quickly. If you suspect that your feline has ingested any Vinca plant material, immediately contact your local veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline (855) 764-7661.
Are Vinca Poisonous to Other Animals
According to the ASPCA, Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) is considered a toxic plant to horses. All parts of the plant contain vinca alkaloids which can cause gastrointestinal upset in horses. Depending on the level of exposure or ingestion, symptoms of poisoning can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Depression
If you suspect that your horse has ingested any Vinca plant material, immediately contact your local equine veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline (855) 764-7661.
Click here for a complete list of Pet Safe Plants.
Symptoms of Vinca Poisoning
Always check with your doctor or veterinarian for guidance if you suspect Vinca plant poisoning. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Depression
- Tremors
- Seizures
To prevent anything bad from happening in the first place, consider using physical barriers such as decorative fencing to prevent children or animals from getting too close for a taste.
Sources:
"Catharanthus roseus." The North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. plants.ces.ncsu.edu
"Common Periwinkle (Vinca minor)." Poison Control - National Capital Poison Center. poison.org
"Vinca." American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. aspca.org
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Author Chris Link - Published 10-11-2021 |