White Befta Baladi Plant

White Befta Baladi Plant

The Periwinkle plant, commonly known as Bafta or Alonka, and scientifically referred to as Catharanthus roseus (often called Vinca rosea), is an outdoor shrub with spreading branches that is widely used as a ground cover between and beneath trees. It can grow up to approximately 80 cm in height and features leaves with short petioles.

Its flowers emerge from the leaf axils and appear in a variety of attractive colors ranging from pink and purple to pure white. The plant is widely cultivated and grows successfully in Saudi Arabia due to its strong tolerance to drought conditions.

Periwinkle is known for its continuous blooming throughout the year. As older flowers fade, new ones quickly replace them, creating the impression that the plant remains constantly in bloom.

The plant also has several medicinal applications. It has been used to extract compounds beneficial for the digestive system, as well as substances that help relieve insect stings such as wasps. Additionally, certain toxic compounds can also be extracted from the plant for pharmaceutical purposes.

Care and Maintenance 🌿Periwinkle is very easy to care for, as it tolerates drought and extreme heat. The most important requirement is providing daily watering once a day, particularly during the summer and periods of intense heat.

It is recommended to water the plant around sunset or shortly before, allowing it to absorb the maximum amount of moisture throughout the night when evaporation is minimal.

This shrub prefers partially shaded environments, which is why it is commonly planted under or between trees.

Applying organic fertilizer at least twice a year is beneficial. The plant can also be pruned to maintain a neat, upright shape, especially when used for lining gardens, walkways, and borders.