Catharanthus longifolius, Apocynaceae

This uncommon species was growing under partly shady conditions in the dry habitat of Isalo National Park around 930 m elevation. The soil is sandy and the plant was surrounded by large rocks and boulders.

The plant has a stout upright stem and long broad leaves plus these pale violet flowers. A very different species compared with the commonly seen Catharanthus roseus in cultivation.