Cora Vinca: How it’s made

A behind-the-scenes look

Cora^® Vinca has become a Texas favorite, thanks to its amazing abilities to thrive in the heat.

Knowing that gardeners loved vinca but often struggled with its performance in challenging weather, the Syngenta Flowers breeding team sought to significantly improve the performance and durability of this garden favorite.

Over the years, the team worked tirelessly to develop a Vinca both beautiful and disease-resistant and, finally, Cora was born! What’s equally impressive is how this…

Becomes this…

…in just a few weeks. Here’s a look at what happens behind the scenes.

A seed is lurking just below the surface. We know. You can’t see it. Even if you were standing next to it in the greenhouse, it would be hidden. Cora Vinca seeds need dark conditions to germinate. But eight or nine days later, the seedlings begin to sprout. Then, it’s lights up—time to really get growing.

After five or six weeks, we have a “plug” (baby plant). Next, it’s time to “bulk up.”

At this point, the plug is transplanted into the container in which it’ll be sold at retail. It could be a 4-inch pot, or even several plants grouped together to create a large container bursting with color.

The plants will stay in the greenhouse anywhere from six to nine weeks, depending on the container size. Then, it’s off to the garden center, where you’re treated to this sight:

And—finally—you get to enjoy Cora Vinca in your own landscape. Cora is a true heat lover, producing huge, show-stopping blooms throughout the season. Contrasted by glossy green foliage, the vivid blooms beautifully withstand summer heat and humidity.

© 2012 Syngenta. Some or all of the varieties listed herein may be protected under one or more of the following: Plant Variety Protection, United States Plant Patents, Utility Patents, and/or Plant Breeders’ Rights and may not be propagated or reproduced without authorization. Cora® and the Syngenta logo are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company.