Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Western Asia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Vinca minor, also known as periwinkle, is a low-growing, flowering perennial with trailing stems that root at nodes. Known for its evergreen foliage and ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, making it a popular ground cover.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings or seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide partial to full sun for optimal growth.
- Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 💧
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems ✂️
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Monitor for pests and diseases
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
- Use chemical pesticides excessively ❌
- Neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Periwinkle questions
What zones can Periwinkle grow in?
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 Periwinkle deer resistant?
Yes — Periwinkle is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Periwinkle bloom?
Periwinkle typically blooms in spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Periwinkle need full sun?
Periwinkle does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Periwinkle drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Periwinkle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Vinca to compare
Periwinkle Variegated
Vinca minor 'Variegated'
Sterling Silver Periwinkle
Vinca minor 'Sterling Silver'
Illumination Periwinkle
Vinca minor 'Illumination'
Common Periwinkle Vinca
Vinca major
Greater Periwinkle
Vinca major 'Traditional'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Periwinkle with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
