Bring the Outdoors Home

Vinca minor | Plant Profile

Lesser Periwinkle (Vinca minor) is a creeping groundcover with green leaves and soft blue-purple flowers that grow throughout the foliage. These are short ground covers that grow outwards rapidly.

Vinca minor are able to rapidly cover a large area, filling out a planting bed or woodland area. It can grow well in shady areas and under trees where grass would suffer. These groundcovers grow by runners, or vine-like arms that root where they touch soil.

Vinca minor are a popular choice for hillsides and slopes as they need little water. The carpeting roots may also help hold soil in place, preventing erosion. The leaves are not attractive to deer, rabbits, or pests.

Maintenance primarily includes cutting away the vines and managing growth to prevent it becoming invasive. This is more prevalent if planted in beds with other plant species or near structures.

Description

Vinca minor Characteristics

A beautiful addition to a large area in need of color and cover, Vinca minor is a hardy groundcover option.

Vinca minor can tolerate many types of soil, including average, sandy, or clay, and will thrive in full sun to part shade. While many other plants are not up to the challenge, Vinca minor can usually handle dry shade, though it usually isn't bothered by Pittsburgh's rainy climate.

Annual fertilization will give the flowers a boost in color, but is not required for the health of the plant. Colors can range from light blue, white, lavender, all the way to dark purple.

Vinca minor is commonly grown in areas where grass will not survive to due heavy shade and little water. Watering may be required until the roots are established.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones  4- 8
Height
.25 - .50'
Spread
.50 - 1.50'
Bloom Time
May - June
Water
Dry - Medium
Sun
Full Sun to Part Shade
Maintenance
Medium
Deer Resistant?
Yes