My neighbor has planted this plant 2xs each time the leaves swivel. She has changed the soil used miracle grow she does not water or under water all the other plants in this flower bed are thriving just the 2 end one. If anyone has any ideas why would be thankful. We live in central Florida

Having tried the same plant several times in that spot, I would be looking at the difference in sun exposure, does that particular spot drain the same?
The other plant of the same kind is beautiful, so something about the conditions for the second plant is different.

Hi Linda,

They are suffering from Phytophthora fungus. It is a very common problem with Catharanthus roseus particularly in hot, humid, rainy climates. She needs to find a resistant variety, like the 'Cora' series, or try another type of plant entirely. The spores are in her yard and will re-infect the new Catharanthus roseus plants. I've given up ever buying the generic 6-packs of these because of this very reason. In fact, I often see shelves of the cheap Catharanthus roseus 6-packs at the big box stores that are already infected and wilting.

Sorry!

Oh what a bummer.

Thank everyone I told her to try another plant I will let her know.

If she wants to try Catharanthus roseus again in the future, you can find resistant varieties but they usually cost more. I've had good luck with a couple of the 'Cora' varieties. 'Cora Apricot' is my personal favorite, but there are a lot of nice color selections.

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