Vinca

*Invasive species

Vinca Minor (Lesser Periwinkle)

Scientific Name: Vinca minor
Common Names: Lesser Periwinkle, Ground Periwinkle, Dwarf Vinca

Native to: Europe and parts of Asia
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to shade (if planted in full sun, ensure it has a break from the afternoon sun. It performs best in partial sun.
Height: 6 to 8 inches
Width: Spreads 12 to 18 inches
Winter Look: Evergreen in mild climates; semi-evergreen to deciduous in colder regions
Seasonal Interest: Glossy, green leaves year-round; blue or purple funnel-shaped flowers in spring to early summer
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates dry spells once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moist soil; tolerates a variety of soil types
pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4–9
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Attracts: Pollinators, especially bees
Potential Issues: It can spread aggressively and become invasive in some areas; periodic maintenance is required to prevent overgrowth. Leaf rollers can quickly damage Vincas and cause defoliation. Treat with BT.
Notes: Vinca minor is a low-growing, evergreen ground cover, often used for erosion control, as a border plant, or in shady areas. It forms a dense carpet of foliage and flowers and is an excellent choice for difficult-to-grow spaces. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant but requires occasional pruning to manage its spread.

Differences Between Vinca minor and Vinca major (Greater Periwinkle):

• Size: Vinca major is typically larger than Vinca minor. While Vinca minor usually reaches 6 to 8 inches in height, Vinca major can grow up to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 3 feet wide.

• Flowers: Both species have similar flowers, but Vinca major flowers are typically larger and more pronounced, while Vinca minor has slightly smaller blooms. Both produce blue or purple flowers, with some cultivars showing white or pink variations.

• Growth Habit: Vinca minor is a more compact, ground-hugging plant, while Vinca major has a more vigorous growth habit and can form a denser, more sprawling mat of foliage. Vinca major tends to grow taller and spread more aggressively.

• Hardiness: Vinca minor is generally more cold-hardy than Vinca major. Vinca minor can tolerate colder climates (hardiness zones 4–9), while Vinca major is best suited for warmer climates (zones 7–9).

• Invasiveness: Both varieties can become invasive in certain areas, but Vinca major is often more aggressive in its growth and spread, especially in warmer climates.

Both species are used similarly in landscaping, particularly as ground covers or trailing plants, but Vinca minor is favored for smaller, more controlled spaces or areas requiring a more restrained spread.