Genus Catharanthus (Noun)
Meaning
Small genus of erect annual or perennial herbs native to Madagascar; widely naturalized in the tropics; formerly included in genus Vinca.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Catharanthus is a small genus of erect annual or perennial herbs native to Madagascar that has been widely naturalized in the tropics.
- The genus Catharanthus was formerly included in the genus Vinca but is now recognized as a distinct group of flowering plants.
- Plants in the genus Catharanthus are known for their showy flowers and have become popular ornamental species in many tropical regions.
- Research on the genus Catharanthus has led to the discovery of several important medicinal compounds, including vincristine and vinblastine.
- The genus Catharanthus is often used as a model organism in scientific studies of plant evolution and adaptation.