groundcover

Sterling Silver Periwinkle

Vinca minor 'Sterling Silver'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

6 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing perennial ground cover with attractive silver-edged leaves. The 'Sterling Silver' cultivar is notable for its striking variegated foliage.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Vinca minor Sterling Silver offers striking variegated foliage that adds elegance to shaded garden areas.

Acts as an effective groundcover that suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators such as bees.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in spring for best rooting.
Mist the soil regularly to keep it moist during rooting.
Transplant seedlings after they develop a strong root system, typically in late spring.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly during active growth in spring and summer.
Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged stems.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and provide partial shade in hot climates for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
Prune to encourage bushier growth and remove dead stems
Apply balanced fertilizer during the growing season
Mulch to conserve soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not let the soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverBorder edging with variegated foliageShade-tolerant planting in shady garden beds

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Coral Bells Astilbe Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sterling Silver Periwinkle questions

What zones can Sterling Silver Periwinkle grow in?

Sterling Silver Periwinkle is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sterling Silver Periwinkle deer resistant?

Yes — Sterling Silver Periwinkle is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sterling Silver Periwinkle bloom?

Sterling Silver Periwinkle typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sterling Silver Periwinkle need full sun?

Sterling Silver Periwinkle does best in part shade.

Is Sterling Silver Periwinkle drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sterling Silver Periwinkle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.