Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major) is an evergreen perennial, valued for its vigorous growth and attractive foliage. It forms a prostrate, mat-forming ground cover with long, trailing stems. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round visual appeal. Throughout spring, and often intermittently into summer and autumn, it produces solitary, violet-blue, five-petaled flowers. It is frequently used to cascade over walls, stabilize slopes, or as a dense ground cover to suppress weeds.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light Requirements
Greater Periwinkle adapts to a range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade, though it thrives best in partial shade. In cooler climates, it tolerates more direct sun, but intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves. In deep shade, it may produce fewer flowers and exhibit leggier growth.
Soil Preferences
It adapts to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, but requires well-drained conditions to prevent root rot. It prefers moist, humus-rich soils, tolerating average to dry soil once established. It grows well across a range of pH levels, from mildly acidic to neutral and mildly alkaline.
Watering
Newly planted Greater Periwinkle requires consistent moisture until established. Once established, it becomes somewhat drought-tolerant, but performs best with consistent soil moisture without being waterlogged. Watering thoroughly every 7 to 10 days, or when the top inch of soil feels dry, is sufficient, especially in warmer months. Applying water directly to the soil rather than overhead helps prevent disease.
Temperature and Hardiness
Greater Periwinkle is winter hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 9, with some varieties extending to Zones 4 or 6. It tolerates high heat, making it suitable for warmer temperate regions. Its evergreen foliage maintains appearance even through mild winters.
Planting Greater Periwinkle
Planting Greater Periwinkle is best done in spring or early autumn, allowing establishment before extreme temperatures. Before planting, loosen the soil and remove weeds, as this becomes more challenging once the ground cover is established. If the soil lacks nutrients or drainage, incorporating organic matter like compost improves conditions.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant’s root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. For ground cover, space plants 12 to 18 inches apart for rapid, dense coverage. Smaller areas can be filled quickly by planting closer, around 8 inches apart. Water generously after planting and maintain consistent moisture until established.
Ongoing Care and Pruning
Pruning for Health and Control
Greater Periwinkle’s vigorous spreading habit necessitates regular pruning to manage growth and promote healthier foliage. Pruning controls its invasive tendencies, as its long, arching stems root where they touch the soil. Early spring, before new growth, is ideal for a significant cutback to remove dead or spindly growth. More aggressive pruning can be done in late spring or early summer to curb excessive spread; however, avoid over-pruning, which can hinder growth.
Fertilization
Greater Periwinkle typically does not require heavy fertilization, growing well even in poorer soils. If soil is low in organic matter or increased vigor and blooming are desired, a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied in early spring. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Weed Management
Its dense, mat-forming growth effectively suppresses most weeds once established. Initial weeding during planting gives young plants a clear start. After establishment, its thick foliage creates a natural barrier, significantly reducing weed emergence. Any emerging weeds can be managed through manual removal.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Pests
Greater Periwinkle is robust and not heavily affected by pests. Aphids and nematodes are occasional concerns. Aphids can be dislodged with a strong water spray or treated with insecticidal soap if infestations are severe. Maintaining plant health through proper watering and light helps prevent pest issues.
Diseases
Root rot is a common disease, often resulting from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and general decline. To prevent root rot, ensure excellent drainage and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Leaf spot and blight can also affect Greater Periwinkle, particularly in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Pruning for better airflow and watering at the base in the morning helps mitigate these fungal issues.
Managing Overgrowth
Greater Periwinkle is known for its aggressive spread, which can outcompete other plants if unchecked. Beyond regular pruning, physical barriers like plastic or metal edging, buried at least 6 inches deep, can contain its runners. Removing runners or offshoots as they appear also limits spread. In areas where spread is a concern, growing Greater Periwinkle in containers effectively restricts its growth.