vinca rosea
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A commonly cultivated Old World woody herb with large pinkish to red flowers: This term refers to a specific flowering plant species, known for its ornamental value and medicinal properties. It is a perennial shrub native to Madagascar but widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The garden border was brightened by several vinca rosea plants.
- Botanists study the alkaloids found in vinca rosea.
- She prefers vinca rosea for its long-lasting and colorful blooms.
Advanced Usage
- In a taxonomic or botanical context: The name is used to specify the species within scientific or gardening discussions. It is often synonymous with the modern botanical name .
- The research paper compared the phytochemistry of Vinca rosea to other members of the Apocynaceae family.
Variants and Related Words
- Catharanthus roseus (n): The current, more accepted botanical name for the same plant species.
- Madagascar periwinkle (n): A common name for the same plant.
- Rosy periwinkle (n): Another common name emphasizing the flower color.
Synonyms
- Madagascar periwinkle
- Rosy periwinkle
- Cape periwinkle
- Old maid (regional common name)
Notes on Meaning
- Historical vs. Modern Classification: While traditionally classified in the genus , the plant is now more correctly placed in the genus . However, the name "vinca rosea" remains in common usage, especially among gardeners and in traditional medicine contexts.
- Medicinal Significance: Beyond its ornamental use, the plant is famous as a source of important alkaloids used in chemotherapy drugs. This meaning is often implied in pharmaceutical or ethnobotanical contexts.
Noun
- commonly cultivated Old World woody herb having large pinkish to red flowers