Learn how to paint Catharanthus roseus with watercolor

Learn how to paint Catharanthus roseus, also known as Madagascar periwinkle, with watercolors! This simple yet elegant white and pink flower is perfect for practicing soft color transitions, delicate petal details, and leaf textures. In this tutorial, we’ll explore how to use subtle variations of cool and warm tones to bring out the depth and beauty of these flowers.

Table of Contents

Painting Tools

Watercolor Paper: Arches Cold-Pressed Watercolor Paper
Brushes: Escoda Perla #8 / Escoda Versatil #10
Watercolors: For this beginner step-by-step watercolor tutorial series, I use Schmincke Horadam 24 Half-Pan Set. You can choose any brand and find similar colors.

Colors:
Ultramarine
Magenta
May Green
Cobalt Green Dark

1. White Petals

When painting white objects, I like to use a mix of warm and cool tones to create depth.

For example, in this Catharanthus roseus, I used diluted Ultramarine, Magenta, and a touch of Yellow, painting five petals directly on the paper while leaving a small circular space in the center.

You can see subtle variations of blue, pink, and orange within the petals—not too prominent, but enough to make the flower’s color more interesting and create a sense of light movement.

Before it dries, add Ultramarine and pink to the center, petal tips, and some fine streaks. The pink in the center can be slightly more concentrated.

Since the base color is still wet, these added hues will softly blend, creating a smooth and delicate effect.

2. Base Color of the Second Flower

Now, let’s add a second flower below the first one. Use a slightly more concentrated mix of Ultramarine and Magenta than before. As with the first flower, deepen the center and petals before the base layer dries to enhance the sense of dimension.

2. Petal Details

Fine lines on the petals are key to expressing their softness. They suggest natural curves and folds, giving the petals a delicate appearance.

While still slightly damp, use a small brush to add a few fine lines from the petal edges toward the center.

After the layer has fully dried, gently deepen the areas where petals overlap—this helps define the structure by making the lower petals slightly darker, allowing the upper ones to stand out. Use a very light tone for this step, just enough to create a thin layer of depth. The subtle difference can be seen in the comparison images.

3. Green Leaves

A white and pink flower wouldn’t be complete without green leaves! Let’s mix May Green + Cobalt Green Dark to paint the leaves.

Don’t forget to add leaves in the gaps between petals—it enhances the contrast and makes the flowers stand out.

Finally, use a slightly damp brush to lift some pigment from the leaves to create delicate veins.
With these simple steps, our beautiful flowers are complete!

With just a few carefully blended colors and soft brush techniques, you’ve successfully painted a delicate Catharanthus roseus in watercolor! By layering subtle shades and paying attention to petal details, you can bring out the flower’s natural beauty and create a realistic yet dreamy effect.

If you have any suggestions for what I should paint next, let me know—I’m just as excited as you are for the next tutorial.

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