Common Names: Vinca Minor, Dogbane , Common periwinkle

Family Name: Apocynaceae

Attributes: Vinca Minor -The Common Periwinkle (Vinca Minor) is generally described as a perennial vine or forb/herb. This dicot (dicotyledon) is not native to the U.S. (United States) and has its most active growth period in the spring and summer . The Common Periwinkle has dark green foliage and inconspicuous blue flowers, with conspicuous fruits or seeds. Leaves are retained year to year. The Common Periwinkle has a long life span relative to most other plant species and a moderate growth rate. The Common Periwinkle is easily found in nurseries, garden stores and other plant dealers and distributors. It can be propagated by bare root, container. Note that cold stratification is not required for seed germination and the plant cannot survive exposure to temperatures below -33°F. Common Periwinkle has medium tolerance to drought and restricted water conditions.

General Information: Vinca Minor - Vinca minor L., common periwinkle, is a perennial evergreen ground cover that is winter hardy. It is closely related to the big leaf periwinkle (V. major L.), except in size and hardiness. Common periwinkle seldom exceeds a height of 6 inches although runners may trail long distances on the ground. The runners root at the node under moist conditions. The thick glossy leaves form a good ground cover. Small blue flowers occur indeterminately from April to September.Common periwinkle is adapted to mild climates. It usually requires part shade and ample moisture, but will tolerate full sun if it is adequately watered. It is more hardy than big leaf periwinkle. Moisture and exposure are often more restrictive than soil type on determining adaptation. Common periwinkle is adapted to a wide range of soils. It is found on well drained to poorly drained soils that can be calcareous, alkaline to slightly acidic, and medium textured to fine textured. The plant should be used where there is adequate moisture.

Plant Care: Average water needs, do not over water

Size: Up to 2 ft tall and 2 ft wide

Bloom time: Spring to frost

Long Blooming: Yes

Flower Color: Purple

Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Soil Condition: Poor to rich, moist, well drained soil, slightly acidic

Hardiness Zones: USDA ZONES 6 to 9

Deer Resistant: Yes

Butterfly Attractant:Yes

Heat & Humidity Tolerant: Yes

Drought Tolerant: Yes

Good as cut flower: No