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Bare seeds
Apocynaceae
Ornamental flowers seeds
Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo vinca
Catharanthus roseus
Product code : 61-9140-010
Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo is a compact Madagascar periwinkle and 2007 All-America Selections winner with burgundy flowers surrounding a large, sharply contrasting white centre. Plants reach 25 to 35 cm tall and 15 to 20 cm wide, normally blooming from June through September. This frost-tender annual prefers full sun, warm conditions, and light, sharply drained soil. The packet contains approximately 30 bare seeds to start indoors ten weeks before planting outside. Once established, the plant tolerates drought and needs little maintenance. It suits beds, patio containers, and hanging baskets. Every plant part is toxic and not edible. Keep the original packet available for exact identification and safe handling.
- Quantity
- 30 seeds per packet
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Life cycle
- Annual
Discover the plant
Common namePacifica XP Burgundy Halo vinca
FamilyApocynaceae
GenusCatharanthus
Speciesroseus
CultivarPacifica XP Burgundy Halo
TypeBare seeds
Botanical nameCatharanthus roseus
Reproducible seedsYes
Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo vinca (Catharanthus roseus) produces burgundy flowers with a large white centre that creates crisp contrast in beds, containers, and hanging baskets. A 2007 All-America Selections winner, this early variety develops a compact, rounded plant 25 to 35 cm tall and 15 to 20 cm wide. Flowering normally continues from June through September once warm weather is established. It prefers full sun and light, sharply drained soil, making it especially useful in hot gardens where a colourful, polished, low-maintenance annual is wanted. The sharp bicolour pattern remains effective when viewed from a path, patio, or balcony.
The W.H. Perron packet contains approximately 30 bare seeds. Sow indoors ten weeks before outdoor planting in clean, porous seed-starting mix. Seeds require darkness for germination: cover them with vermiculite, maintain 26°C, and keep the medium lightly moist without saturation. Emergence normally takes 7 to 15 days, and the crop requires approximately 12 to 14 weeks to reach its decorative stage. After emergence, provide bright light and good air movement. Harden seedlings gradually, then transplant them 7 to 10 days after the last ground frost, once nights are reliably warm.
This Madagascar periwinkle tolerates heat and drought well once established, but measured watering supports continuous bloom. Water at soil level in the morning, allow the surface to dry between applications, and avoid standing water, wet foliage late in the day, and poorly ventilated sites. After transplanting, water thoroughly without fertilizer; light feeding is sufficient later if growth slows. Every part of Catharanthus roseus contains alkaloids and is not edible. Keep the original packet available for exact identification and safe handling. Keep seeds and plants beyond the reach of children and animals, and contact poison control or a veterinarian following possible ingestion.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
Cover with vermiculite: seeds need darkness to germinate
Spacing / density
Space for a 15-to-20-cm spread
Germination temperature
26°C
Germination time
7 to 15 days
Sowing period
Indoors 10 weeks before outdoor planting, after the last frost
Propagation
Seed
Growing method
Sow indoors ten weeks before outdoor planting in a clean tray filled with porous seed-starting mix. Place the bare seeds, then cover them with vermiculite because darkness is required for germination. Maintain lightly moist medium and a steady temperature of 26°C. Emergence normally takes 7 to 15 days. As soon as seedlings appear, move them into bright light, space them when needed, and provide good air movement. Avoid excess water, which weakens roots. Transplant young plants carefully without burying the crown. Harden them gradually to sun, wind, and outdoor temperatures. Plant outside 7 to 10 days after the last ground frost, once nights are warm, in full sun and light, sharply drained soil. Water thoroughly immediately after planting without fertilizer, then allow the surface to dry slightly between applications. Allow for 25 to 35 cm of height, a 15-to-20-cm spread, and approximately 12 to 14 weeks to the decorative stage. Keep the label with the tray, rotate young plants for even light, and delay transplanting whenever frost or prolonged cold remains possible. During growth, rotate trays for even light, remove weak seedlings, and keep leaves away from wet mix. After planting, inspect habit, moisture, and new bloom each week so care can be adjusted without unnecessary treatment.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Light, dry to moderately moist, well-drained soil
Minimum temperature
Frost tender during annual production
Care level
Easy
Drought tolerance
Yes
Watering
Water thoroughly at transplanting, then check the soil before every new application. Once established, the plant tolerates drought, but moderate, consistent moisture supports flowering. Water in the morning directly at soil level so foliage remains dry, and allow the surface to dry slightly. Reduce frequency during cool or rainy weather and empty saucers. Late watering combined with poor air circulation encourages disease, so avoid standing water and foliage that remains wet overnight.
Soil type
This vinca prefers light, warm, sharply drained soil that remains dry to moderately moist. Loosen the planting area and keep the crown level with the surrounding surface. Avoid depressions, compact clay, and any place where water remains after rain. A moderate amount of mature compost may improve structure, but rich or constantly wet soil does not improve flowering. In containers, use an airy potting mix and several drainage holes. Allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Do not add fertilizer to the first watering after transplanting, as directed by W.H. Perron. Wait until roots are established and new growth is visible. In suitable soil, light balanced feeding is sufficient. In containers, apply diluted fertilizer only when growth or flowering slows. Avoid strong, repeated doses, especially on dry potting mix, because excess salts may damage roots. Water a dry plant first and always follow the labelled rate for the selected product.
Moisture
Consistent without saturation
Seasonal care
In spring, start seeds ten weeks before the planned planting date and keep trays warm at 26°C until emergence. After germination, provide bright light and rotate trays for balanced seedlings. Begin hardening only when frost risk is declining. In early summer, transplant 7 to 10 days after the last ground frost, water thoroughly without fertilizer, and watch establishment. Through summer, let the surface dry slightly, water at soil level in the morning, and maintain good air movement. Remove damaged leaves or flowers, but heavy pruning is unnecessary. Check containers more often during very hot or windy days without leaving water in saucers. Light feeding may be supplied when growth slows. In autumn, shelter containers temporarily during a cold night when you want to extend the display. Because the plant is frost tender in Canada, remove it after the first hard frosts. Wear gloves if your skin is sensitive, do not leave discarded plant parts where animals could chew them, and wash hands after handling. Clean pots and tools before reuse, then record sowing, emergence, and first-bloom dates. These observations help adjust next season’s timing to your climate without changing the temperature or intervals confirmed for the packet. Keep the label with the plant throughout the season for exact identification. Review drainage after heavy rain and move pots away from cold drafts or early frost.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
Container at least 30 cm wide with drainage
Choose a container at least 30 cm wide with several drainage holes. A stable pot suits the compact habit of Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo and reduces tipping in wind. Fill it with light, airy potting mix without blocking holes with an impermeable layer. Grow one plant in a smaller container or space several plants in a larger window box. Move the pot into full sun after hardening. Water thoroughly at planting without fertilizer, then test moisture with a finger before watering again. Always empty the saucer and favour morning watering at soil level. Light, diluted feeding is enough when growth slows. Rotate the container for even light, remove damaged growth, and keep neighbouring plants spaced for air movement around the foliage. Keep the pot beyond the reach of children and animals because every plant part is toxic. Before frost, move it temporarily into shelter to extend flowering, but do not treat this annual as winter hardy. Inspect leaf undersides regularly, clear fallen debris, and keep the container away from traffic where it could be tipped. Record the watering rhythm that suits your exposure so it can be repeated during hot periods.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
25 to 35 cm (9.8 to 13.8 in)
Width / spread
15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 in)
Flower color
Burgundy with white centre
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Green foliage
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Compact and rounded
Fragrance
No particular fragrance confirmed
Bloom period
Single flowers have burgundy petals surrounding a large white centre, the distinctive feature that contributed to the 2007 All-America Selections award. The variety flowers early and can maintain its display from June through September when warmth, sun, and drainage are suitable. Moderate moisture, morning watering at soil level, and good air movement support continued flowering. Check container stability after storms and keep foliage clear of nearby plants that could reduce airflow. Remove only damaged blooms and foliage. Protect the plant from frost, which ends its annual cycle in most Canadian regions.
Days to maturity
12 to 14 weeks
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Pair this vinca with compact plants that prefer full sun, heat, and rapid drainage, such as dwarf zinnias, celosia, gomphrena, or silver foliage. White, pink, soft yellow, and chartreuse emphasize its burgundy halo. Follow each species’ spacing and avoid vigorous companions that would cover the foliage or retain moisture. In a container, combine only plants with similar watering needs. Keep the foliage of every plant visible so water stress or an unusual spot can be noticed promptly. Avoid dense, moisture-loving companions that shade the crown or keep leaves wet after rain.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How many seeds are in the packet, and are they treated?
The W.H. Perron packet carrying product code 61-9140-010 contains approximately 30 bare Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo seeds. A bare seed is not coated; the official page lists no priming or other treatment. This product is not advertised as organic, and the trade name carries no F1 designation. The plant can produce seed, but its offspring may not retain the cultivar’s exact burgundy-and-white halo. Store the closed, labelled packet in a cool, dry place beyond the reach of children and animals. Keep the labelled packet for identification and move containers temporarily before a cold night when you want to extend bloom. Its compact size also makes a container easier to move temporarily before a cold night. These seeds are intended only for ornamental growing: do not taste them, wash hands after sowing, and keep the original packet available for exact identification.
When should it be sown?
Sow indoors ten weeks before the planned outdoor planting date. Use clean, porous seed-starting mix, cover seeds with vermiculite to provide the required darkness, and maintain 26°C. Germination normally takes 7 to 15 days. After emergence, place seedlings in bright light, keep the medium lightly moist, and provide good air movement. Harden them gradually, then transplant 7 to 10 days after the last ground frost once nights are warm. Allow approximately 12 to 14 weeks from sowing to the decorative stage. Keep the label with the tray, rotate young plants for even light, and delay transplanting whenever frost or prolonged cold remains possible. During growth, rotate trays for even light, remove weak seedlings, and keep leaves away from wet mix. After planting, inspect habit, moisture, and new bloom each week so care can be adjusted without unnecessary treatment.
Which temperature supports germination?
Maintain a steady temperature of 26°C during germination. Cover seeds with vermiculite because they require darkness, and keep the mix lightly moist without saturation. Emergence generally takes 7 to 15 days. A low temperature slows the process, while a waterlogged tray increases the risk of loss. As soon as seedlings appear, provide bright light and good air movement. Gradually remove any humidity cover and water at soil level as needed so young leaves do not remain wet. Label the tray, check emergence daily, and protect seedlings from cold drafts. Do not fertilize until roots are established and active growth has begun.
How large does the plant grow?
The compact, rounded plant normally reaches 25 to 35 cm tall and 15 to 20 cm wide according to W.H. Perron. This size suits the front of a bed, a patio pot, a window box, or a hanging basket. Leave enough space between plants for air movement and light around every crown. A container at least 30 cm wide provides a more stable soil volume. Development varies with heat, light, watering, and season length, but excessive fertilizer is unnecessary for balanced growth. Rotate containers occasionally for even light, and keep plants away from walkways where leaves or flowers could be damaged. The final dimensions may vary slightly with temperature, light, and the length of the local growing season.
Is this vinca edible or safe for pets?
No. Pacifica XP Burgundy Halo is Madagascar periwinkle, Catharanthus roseus, also known by the older name Vinca rosea. This ornamental contains active alkaloids, and every part, including seeds, leaves, flowers, stems, and roots, should be considered toxic when chewed or swallowed. Place it beyond the reach of young children, dogs, cats, horses, and other animals likely to nibble plants. Do not consume any part and never use it as a home remedy. If ingestion may have occurred or symptoms appear, promptly contact a poison-control centre, physician, or veterinarian and provide the botanical name and possible amount. Keep the labelled packet available to support exact identification.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Reported toxicity
Yes
Supporting wildlife
Flowers may be visited by butterflies and other pollinators. Visits depend on habitat, weather, and other available floral resources. Avoid insecticides on open blooms and combine this annual with several nectar plants to support a diversity of insects through the season. Leave enough spacing to observe every crown and keep foliage dry after rain.
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