Periwinkles: Perennial Ground Cover with Evergreen Foliage and Starry Flowers

Periwinkles are low-growing evergreen perennials that serve as excellent ground cover and effectively prevent weed growth. These versatile plants belong to the Apocynaceae family and are commonly found in gardens and landscapes. The most prevalent species of periwinkles are lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor) and greater periwinkle (Vinca major).

Key Facts

  1. Periwinkles are low-growing evergreen perennials that provide ground cover and prevent weed growth.
  2. There are different species of periwinkles, with the most common ones being lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor) and greater periwinkle (Vinca major).
  3. Lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor) is usually the best choice for gardens as it forms neat mats of growth, looks good all year round, and keeps weeds at bay.
  4. Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is more vigorous and can become invasive, spreading quickly and rooting where its shoots touch the ground.
  5. Periwinkles have glossy evergreen foliage in various shades of green, and they produce starry flowers in colors like blue, white, and purple from spring to autumn.
  6. Periwinkles prefer partially shaded areas but can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade.
  7. They thrive in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic and evenly moist, but they can also grow in poor soil that dries out a bit.
  8. Periwinkles are relatively low-maintenance plants and do not have severe pest problems. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, scale, spider mites, and fungal diseases in wet areas.
  9. Periwinkles can be propagated easily using stem cuttings, which can be rooted in a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite.

Lesser Periwinkle (Vinca minor): A Garden-Friendly Choice

Lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor) is often the preferred choice for gardens due to its manageable growth habit. It forms neat mats of growth that maintain their aesthetic appeal throughout the year while effectively suppressing weeds. This species is characterized by its glossy evergreen foliage in various shades of green and produces starry flowers in colors such as blue, white, and purple from spring to autumn.

Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major): A Vigorous Species with Invasive Tendencies

Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is known for its vigorous growth and can become invasive if not properly controlled. Its arching stems grow quickly and root where they touch the ground, enabling it to spread rapidly and potentially crowd out other plants. While it can be useful for covering awkward spots like poor or stony ground or rough banks, its invasive nature requires careful management to prevent it from becoming a problem in borders with other plants.

Periwinkle Care and Maintenance

Periwinkles are relatively low-maintenance plants that thrive in various conditions. They prefer partially shaded areas but can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade. These plants grow best in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic and evenly moist, but they can also adapt to poor soil that dries out occasionally. Periwinkles do not typically have severe pest problems, but they can be susceptible to aphids, scale, spider mites, and fungal diseases in wet areas.

Propagation of Periwinkles

Periwinkles can be easily propagated using stem cuttings. These cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and rooted in a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.

Conclusion

Periwinkles are versatile and attractive plants that can enhance any garden or landscape. With their evergreen foliage, colorful flowers, and ability to thrive in various conditions, they are a valuable addition to any gardening enthusiast’s collection. Proper care and management, particularly for the more vigorous greater periwinkle, ensure that these plants remain a beautiful and beneficial part of the garden.

Sources

FAQs

Do Periwinkles Come Back Every Year?

Yes, periwinkles are perennial plants, meaning they typically come back year after year. They have evergreen foliage that remains green throughout the year, and they produce flowers during their blooming season.

How Long Do Periwinkles Live?

Periwinkles are long-lived plants and can survive for many years with proper care and maintenance. Some species, like Vinca minor, can live for up to 50 years or more.

Do Periwinkles Spread?

Yes, periwinkles can spread and form dense mats of growth. This is due to their creeping habit, where their stems grow along the ground and root where they touch the soil. Some species, like Vinca major, are more vigorous spreaders than others.

Are Periwinkles Invasive?

Some species of periwinkles, particularly Vinca major, can become invasive in certain regions. Their aggressive spreading habit can crowd out other plants and become difficult to control. It’s important to choose less invasive species like Vinca minor or manage the growth of Vinca major to prevent it from becoming a problem.

When Do Periwinkles Bloom?

The blooming period of periwinkles varies depending on the species and climate. Generally, they bloom in the spring and early summer, producing colorful starry flowers in shades of blue, purple, white, or pink.

How to Care for Periwinkles?

Periwinkles are relatively low-maintenance plants. They prefer well-drained soil, partial shade, and regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary but can help promote healthy growth and flowering. Pruning or trimming may be needed to control their spread and maintain a desired shape.

Are Periwinkles Deer Resistant?

Yes, periwinkles are generally considered deer resistant. Deer tend to avoid browsing on periwinkles due to their bitter taste and unpalatable foliage. This makes them a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.

Can Periwinkles Grow in Shade?

Yes, periwinkles are shade-tolerant plants and can thrive in partially shaded areas. They can even tolerate full shade, although they may produce fewer flowers in low-light conditions. This makes them suitable for planting under trees or in shady corners of the garden.