It’s useful for providingground coverand is known for its creeping habit.

When planting, keep in mind that this species is toxic to pets.

Warning

Vinca minor is considered aninvasivespecies in parts of the United States.

Vinca minor ground cover in bloom.

The Spruce / David Beaulieu

Consult your local cooperative extension office before planting to learn the status of the plant in your area.

Planting

Plant vinca minor in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.

Light

Vinca minor grows in partial sun, partial shade, and full shade.

vinca minor

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

It tolerates deep shade conditions but may burn in direct sunlight.

For best results, plant in partial shade.

Also, they are a good choice for a ground cover for an area with dry shade.

closeup of periwinkle

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Soil

Vinca minor vines require good drainage.

Space them about a foot apart if you want to fill in an area quickly.

They will thrive in soils rich incompost, but they will tolerate poorer soils.

white vinca minor

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Water

Water this plant often shortly after planting.

You may need to water more often during the longest, hottest days of the year.

While the plants will grow better in moist soils, its vines are pretty drought-tolerant once mature.

vinca minor before blossoming

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Temperature and Humidity

This plant prefers average humidity levels.

Vinca minor is perennial in zones 4 through 9 and prefers temperate climates.

Propagating Vinca Minor

Vinca minor can be grown from seed, but it grows slowly.

you’re able to propagate this plant by taking cuttings or by division.

Note that nursery plants are usually readily available for this species.

When repotting, choose a pot that’s only two or three inches wider than the current vessel.

Overwintering

Vinca minor is hardy down to zone 4.It won’t survive winter in colder zones.

The vine is also susceptible to wilt and dieback, which is typically sparked by fungal diseases.

Yes, vinca minor will still bloom when grown in partial and full shade.

Vinca minor has a medium growth rate, but can become a very vigorous, aggressive grower.

If this is a concern, keep runners in check on an annual basis.

Vinca minor flowers are purple, while impatiens flowers are usually shades of pink and red.

Also, while vinca minor leans towards tropical, impatiens plants wilt in warm climates.

Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

North Carolina State Extension.

Managing Pests in Gardens: Floriculture: Vinca.University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program.

Periwinkle.Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center.