Vinca major

Vinca major, more commonly known as bigleaf periwinkle, is a perennial evergreen groundcover plant native to Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia.  Petite, violet-blue blooms with five petals adorn the creeping vines starting in spring and potentially continuing into the early fall.  Though its blooms may be elegant, the bigleaf periwinkle's true beauty lies in its grand foliage, as opposite pairs of teardrop-shaped, lustrous green leaves decorate its vines.  Most bigleaf periwinkles fit the aforementioned description, but there are some cultivars that provide unique flower colors and variegated foliage as well.  Bigleaf periwinkle were believed to have been used to prepare garlands or crowns for festivals in ancient Rome, and they are still widely utilized for their beauty, as they are commonly found in floral arrangements today.  All parts of bigleaf periwinkle plants are mildly toxic and should be responsibly planted outside of the reach of children and pets.  

Provide bigleaf periwinkle with a location that receives partial shade from the midday sun for optimal growth, though they can be grown in completely shaded areas as well.  If planted somewhere without shade, ensure they are watered more often during prolonged periods of hot weather.  Any well-draining, slightly acidic soil should allow bigleaf periwinkle plants to thrive, as they often grow in unsuspecting places with poor soil conditions.  Heavy clays may not allow for adequate drainage and should be amended with compost or peat moss.   Bigleaf periwinkle do not typically require supplemental watering when grown in shaded conditions, except during periods of extended drought.  Warm to temperate climates are ideal for growing bigleaf periwinkle, as they are not very cold-tolerant and fair better when planted near heat-reflecting surfaces.  Though fertilizing is not necessary when planted in healthy soil, adding some compost around struggling plants can help to improve their health.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water sparingly, allowing the mix to nearly dry out between watering.

Vinca Major

Vinca major

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Ornamental

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