Botanical name
Vinca minor
Common name
Vinca, Common Periwinkle
Vinca plant description
Vinca (aka Periwinkle) can be a weed in warm climates. There’s no two ways about it. If left to its own devices, it will pop up everywhere. Having said that, when in a suburban garden setting and kept under control, Periwinkle can be a pretty addition to the garden.
There are many species of Vinca, some trailing groundcovers while others are small shrubs. Vinca minor is a hardy shrub with glossy green attractive leaves.
Vinca minor flowers profusely during Spring and Summer and continues to flower throughout most of the year. The flowers vary in colour from pink to lilac and white.
Climate
Broad range of climates.
Plant cultivation and care
Periwinkle will grow in full sun to full shade (although full shade produces a growth habit that is more straggly with fewer flowers). Highly adaptable to most soils and conditions, Periwinkle can become a weed in warm climates if not controlled.
Avoid planting in areas where it can escape into bushland or will not be kept under control.
Plant use
Shrubberies, shade gardens, colourful gardens, pots
Pruning
Periwinkle responds well to being cut back hard if it becomes a bit straggly.
Pests and diseases
No specific pests or diseases.
