Species greater periwinkle
purple-blue flowers with yellow center, green leaves and stem

greater periwinkle

Vinca major

The greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is an evergreen perennial plant that is a popular garden favorite. It has dark green, leathery, oblong leaves and blooms bright lavender-blue flowers with a yellow center. The blooms appear during the spring and summer months and last for up to a month if not deadheaded. Its bottom and creeping foliage makes it an inspired choice when used as a ground cover. The greater periwinkle thrives in a variety of soil types, and prefers full sun to partial shade. It's a great addition to outdoor living spaces as it adds color throughout the year.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Layering Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 9

Flowers:

Violet-blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Greater periwinkle plants should be watered every 7 to 10 days. During the summer months, water the soil thoroughly when it becomes dry. In the winter months, reduce the amount of water and only water the plant when the soil has become completely dry. It is better to water the plant slowly and deeply instead of light and shallow watering. Make sure to check for excess water in the pot or container; if there is standing water, drain it out. If the soil is soggy, reduce the watering frequency.

sunlight

Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is a hardy, evergreen plant species that prefers partial to full sun. If grown in a shaded area, the plant may become leggy and have fewer flowers. For ideal growth, greater periwinkle needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, with 8-10 hours preferred. During the summer months when sunlight is more intense, partial shade can be beneficial for this plant. This species flourishes in cooler, northern climates during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the sun is less intense.

pruning

Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) should be pruned in the early spring before new growth occurs. This is typically done when temperatures consistently stay above freezing. Pruning can be done lightly at first to remove dead branches and spindly growth. If the plant has spread excessively, more aggressive pruning may be done. This should occur in late spring or early summer. It is important not to over-prune, as this will inhibit its growth and health. Regular pruning of greater periwinkle helps to promote a tidy and attractive habit.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Greater periwinkle typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map