Periwinkle
Also known as
Lesser periwinkle, Common periwinkle, Creeping myrtle, Dwarf periwinkle, Trailing myrtle
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Vinca minor, commonly called periwinkle or creeping myrtle, is an evergreen, mat-forming subshrub prized as a tough groundcover for shady sites. Its slender, trailing stems root at the nodes to form dense carpets 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) tall. Opposite, leathery leaves are glossy dark green (often variegated in cultivars) and hold year-round. In spring it bears solitary, five-lobed, pinwheel-like flowers, typically violet-blue, with sporadic rebloom in cool weather. Adaptable to a range of soils, it prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral conditions but will tolerate brief drought once established. Hardy in USDA Zones 4-9, it is notably resistant to deer and rabbits and helps control erosion on slopes or beneath trees where turf struggles. Because it spreads by runners, it can escape cultivation and become invasive in some regions; avoid planting near natural areas and dispose of clippings responsibly. All parts contain vinca alkaloids and are toxic if ingested by pets or people. Low-maintenance, it is easily propagated by division, layering, or softwood cuttings and benefits from occasional pruning to keep edges tidy.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Periwinkle
Water
Water consistently during the first growing season to establish a deep, fibrous root system: about 1 inch per week from rain or irrigation. Apply deep, infrequent soakings rather than frequent light sprinkles, and direct water to the soil, not the foliage. Once established, Vinca minor is fairly drought-tolerant; water only during extended dry spells. In containers, irrigate when the top 1-2 inches of mix are dry, allowing excess to drain freely. Avoid soggy soils, which encourage root rot and decline.
Light
Best bloom and foliage occur in partial shade—morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. It also thrives in full shade, though flowers may be fewer and stems may lengthen slightly. In cool-summer climates it can handle more sun if soil stays evenly moist. In hot or reflective sites, full sun leads to leaf scorch, chlorosis, and increased water demand. Avoid deep, dry shade under dense evergreens unless supplemental water is available; thin overhead canopies to improve dappled light.
Nutrients
Fertilize sparingly. In the ground, top-dress with 1-2 inches of compost in early spring or apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at half the label rate. Excess nitrogen promotes lanky growth and fewer flowers. For container-grown plants, feed monthly during active growth with a diluted (1/4 strength) complete liquid fertilizer, and skip feeding in winter. Avoid fertilizing newly planted divisions until they root and resume growth (about 6-8 weeks). Always water after feeding and keep granules off foliage to prevent burn.
Temperature
Hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 4-9, Vinca minor tolerates winter lows to roughly -30°F (-34°C) with snow cover and good drainage. Ideal growing temperatures are 55-75°F (13-24°C). In hot summers, provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture; heat combined with full sun can stress and scorch foliage. In containers, protect roots from freeze-thaw cycles by insulating pots or overwintering in an unheated, bright garage. Mulch 2-3 inches in late fall to buffer soil temperatures and reduce heave.
