Differences between Catharanthus roseus and Impatiens

1. Different varieties

Catharanthus roseus is a plant of the Apocynaceae family and the genus Vinca. It is a subshrub and can grow perennially. It has many nicknames, including Goose Head Red, Three Thousand Flowers, Marigold, Four Seasons Spring, and Daily New. It has little similarity with the latter and can be distinguished. Please note that it is toxic and must not be ingested by mistake, otherwise it will cause poisoning.

Impatiens is a plant of the Impatiens family and the Impatiens genus. It is an annual herb and is also called golden phoenix flower, pink, henna, impetuous, daughter flower, etc. Its flowers and leaves can be used to dye nails.

2. Different leaves

The leaves of Catharanthus roseus are oblong in shape, relatively small, about 3-4 cm long and 1.5-2.5 cm wide.

The leaves of Impatiens are lanceolate and narrowly elliptical, relatively larger than the former, about 4-12 cm long and about 1.5-3 cm wide.

3. Different flowers

Catharanthus roseus has single petals with spaces between them. The corolla is usually red, but there are other colors as well, and it is shaped like a high-footed saucer.

Impatiens has not only single petals but also double petals, with smaller distances between petals. The flowers come in many colors, including white, purple, pink, etc.