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Lesser periwinkle
The Vinca minor, commonly known as the lesser periwinkle or running myrtle, is a versatile and attractive evergreen groundcover, ideal for a variety of garden settings. With its charming blue flowers and lush green foliage, this species is a favorite for gardeners looking to create a tapestry of year-round color.
Native to Europe and the Caucasus region, Vinca minor thrives in a range of conditions and adds a touch of elegance to any landscape design.
The Vinca or running myrtle offers several noteworthy features that make it a must-have for garden enthusiasts:
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Vinca minor flourishes in a variety of lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade and even in full shade, making it an extremely versatile ground cover. For optimal growth, it should be planted in well-drained soil, though it is adaptable to most soil types. This evergreen species is ideal for creating lush underplantings in borders or group plantings and is particularly effective for controlling erosion on slopes. While it has an average water need, it is not drought-resistant, necessitating regular watering during prolonged dry periods.
To establish Vinca minor, select a well-drained site that can accommodate its creeping growth habit, in full sun to full shade. Plant it in pots or directly in the ground, spacing the plants approximately 15-20 cm apart to allow for spreading. The soil should be prepared by loosening and amending with organic matter if necessary. After planting, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged to encourage establishment. This species thrives with moderate watering, especially in dry periods. In spring or autumn, propagation can be performed by division or semi-ripe cuttings to maintain vigor and encourage dense coverage.
Pruning of Vinca minor is generally minimal, focusing on the removal of dead or unwanted growth to maintain a tidy appearance. Due to its creeping, widespread growth habit, occasional thinning may also be beneficial. This evergreen species can be lightly pruned in early spring to stimulate fresh growth and improve flowering. However, care should be taken not to prune too heavily, as this can reduce the lushness of its foliage and the vibrancy of its charming blue or purple flowers during the blooming season.
Vinca minor requires consistent moisture to thrive but is tolerant of a range of watering conditions once established. During establishment, ensure the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, as good drainage is crucial for the health of the plant. After the initial period, water the plants during extended periods without rainfall to maintain an average moisture level. Overwatering or poor drainage can be detrimental, so monitor the soil moisture regularly. The evergreen foliage suggests that even in cooler seasons, the plant should not be left to dry out completely, though less frequent watering is necessary during these times.
To ensure the sustainability of its evergreen foliage and the production of vibrant blue and purple flowers, Vinca minor benefits from an appropriate fertilizing regimen. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once in early spring can support the plant's needs throughout its peak growing and flowering season. Opt for a fertilizer that is designed for use with evergreen groundcovers or one that is formulated to encourage blooming in flowering plants. Care should be taken to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates, as over-fertilization can be detrimental to growth. Since Vinca minor is versatile in soil preference, additional feeding is typically not necessary unless the soil is particularly poor. In such cases, a second application in mid-summer can help maintain plant vigor and floral displays.
Vinca minor is a charming ground cover that adapts well to less sunny spots in the garden, thriving even in partial shade. Its evergreen leaves provide year-round color, while the periwinkle-blue blossoms add a delightful touch each spring. A light trim after flowering can stimulate a bushier growth and encourage a second bloom. This species is often appreciated for its ability to prevent soil erosion, making it a practical and attractive choice for slopes and banks.
To propagate Vinca minor effectively, division is a favored method. Ideally performed in the spring or autumn, this process involves lifting the plant from the soil and separating it into smaller sections. Each division should have a good amount of roots and shoots to ensure successful re-establishment when planted back into well-drained soil. This technique not only stimulates fresh growth but is also essential for maintaining the health and vigor of the plant. With its creeping, widespread growth habit, division helps manage the spread and density of this evergreen ground cover.
Vinca minor typically grows to a height ranging from 10 to 50 centimeters.
Vinca minor can achieve a spread of 1 to 1.5 meters at its full maturity.
Vinca minor can adapt to various soil types, but it flourishes best in well-drained soil. Ensuring proper drainage allows for optimal growing conditions for this plant.
Vinca minor, also known as periwinkle, is a plant that is adaptable to various light conditions. It can thrive in locations with direct sunlight, partial shade, or even in shady areas. This plant offers the flexibility to be grown in different light settings, making it suitable for a wide range of garden environments.
Vinca minor displays lovely blue flowers, adding a delightful touch of color to the plant.
Vinca minor demonstrates winter hardiness, with an ability to endure temperatures ranging from -20.6°C to -15.0°C. This places it within the USDA hardiness zones 6b to 7a. Consequently, Vinca minor is well-equipped to withstand the winter weather conditions in these regions, provided that it is not exposed to temperatures lower than the indicated range.
Vinca minor is indeed evergreen. This means that the plant maintains its green foliage throughout the year, providing a constant splash of color in your garden or landscape.
Vinca minor typically takes 2 to 5 years to reach its ultimate height. This suggests that it is a plant with a moderate growth rate, gradually achieving its full stature over a few years.
If we are proud of anything at Heijnen Plants, it is our plant packaging. We have developed our own unique way of packaging our 9x9 cm potted plants. After years of continued development and research, we managed to create packaging that allows plants to be delivered to your home undamaged and quickly through a parcel service. This makes us unique!
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If you have ordered large-sized plants or trees, we deliver them on sealed pallets and place them around your house or driveway. The pallets are sturdy and provide optimal protection for large-sized plants.
We deliver small or medium-sized plants in boxes. The size of the box depends on the size of the plant. We always make sure that the plant has enough space but still stands firmly in the box, so it cannot be damaged during transport.
Embrace the charm of Vinca minor, a delightful ground cover plant known for its resilience and graceful periwinkle blooms. Its glossy, evergreen leaves provide year-round interest, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty and understated elegance.
