Vinca Minor

Vinca Minor | Periwinkle Plant (Carpet Plant)

Vinca minor, also known as Periwinkle, is a staple in many gardeners’ toolkit. It is an exceptionally functional groundcover boasting evergreen foliage. It is very low maintenance and isn’t picky on planting spot.

For tricky sloped spots, this plant’s tough root system makes for effective erosion control. Its super-fast spread rate will cover any barren or unsightly landscape that needs filling. As a lovely bonus, this plant pops out delicate purple star-shaped flowers every spring that can last throughout the summer.

Plant Details – Vinca Minor Plant

Family: Apocynaceae

Light Requirement: Partial Shade – Full Sun

Water Needs: Dry to Wet

Height: 6-24 in.

Spread: 1-2 ft.

Growth Rate: Fast

Bloom Time: Spring and Fall

Flower Color: Purple, violet, white

Wildlife Value: Prevents erosion, weed suppression

The hardiness of this plant leads it to being an evergreen perennial, making it a reliable groundcover all year long. While originally native to Europe, North Africa, and Southwestern Asia, it has been introduced into many parts of North America.

It is even found wild growing along woody hillsides due to its ability to thrive in partial shade conditions. To witness the full impact of the blooms, its flower output increases with the amount of sun it receives, so keep that in mind when deciding on its planting spot location.

Uses and Maintenance for Vinca Minor (Periwinkle Plant)

Most often grown as a groundcover, Vinca minor spreads and self-roots like no other. It may require some pulling or dividing later in the season to help contain it. Although it is usually grown for its horizontal spread, this plant can also be trained to grow as a vine up structural support such as on a trellis or fence.

This would not only add its usual unique interest to the garden in the spring with its lovely purple flowers but also could help to cover any unsightly structures all year long. This would require a little more time and effort, but the effect is worth it. This plant is truly what you make of it!

Noteworthy Characteristics of Vinca Minor (Periwinkle Plant)

Vinca minor has memorable star-shaped flowers. Once you’ve been enchanted to meet this plant, you will easily spot it forever! Its foliage is a pleasant bright green that shoots up from adorable stems of 3-6 inches. This groundcover can transform a drab or dreary landscape into one filled with hope.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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