Jerusalem Cherry is very similar in appearance except that the fruit is round and poisonous if eaten. Dwarf Summer Cluster is the longest standing, most compact variety available. With improved varieties and additional colors, Vinca has become a very popular annual in the South. It is heat and drought tolerant, and grows well on poor soils. Do not confuse Catharanthus with the true Vincas, V. minor and V. Major , which are evergreen perennial ground covers.
Petunias remain a popular flowering annual.
They are heat tolerant, but require ample moisture and fertility to thrive. Virtually all colors are available. Several flower forms are also available, including fully double types. The single multiflora varieties are generally best for landscape use. Few annuals can match the performance of this low-growing, spreading plant in hot, dry locations.