Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major)
Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major), also known as Bigleaf Periwinkle, is a vigorous, trailing evergreen groundcover prized for its glossy foliage and striking blue-violet flowers. This fast-spreading plant is ideal for erosion control, shaded landscapes, and cascading container displays.
Distinctive Features
Greater Periwinkle features broad, ovate green leaves that provide year-round interest, along with showy, five-petaled flowers that bloom from spring through summer. Its trailing stems root easily as they spread, making it an excellent choice for covering large areas quickly.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers partial to full shade; tolerates morning sun.
- Soil: Well-draining, moist, fertile soil.
- Water: Moderate watering needs; drought-tolerant once established.
- Humidity: Adaptable to various humidity levels.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9.
Ideal Uses
- Ground Cover: Spreads quickly to fill shaded areas and suppress weeds.
- Containers & Hanging Baskets: Cascades beautifully over edges.
- Woodland Gardens: Thrives under trees and in naturalistic landscapes.
- Erosion Control: Helps stabilize slopes and banks with dense growth.
Low Maintenance Care
Greater Periwinkle is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care beyond occasional trimming.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; reduce watering once established.
- Pruning: Trim back as needed to control spread and maintain shape.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring for lush growth.
- Propagation: Easily propagated by stem cuttings or navision.
Why Choose Greater Periwinkle?
With its rapid growth, shade tolerance, and year-round appeal, Greater Periwinkle is an excellent choice for adding lush greenery and erosion control to landscapes.
- Vigorous Ground Cover: Quickly fills in large areas with dense foliage.
- Shade-Tolerant: Thrives in low-light areas where other plants may struggle.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little upkeep once established.
- Soil Stabilization: Helps prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Versatile Placement: Ideal for borders, containers, and woodland gardens.
For those looking for an attractive, fast-growing, and easy-care plant, Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major) is an excellent choice.