Key features
Final size0.5m x 1.5m in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersViolet-blue flowers from mid spring to late summer
PositionFull sun to full shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Vinca minor, commonly known as Lesser Periwinkle, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that is often used as a ground cover or mat. It reaches an approximate height of just 0.5m and spreads of up to 1.5m. Lesser periwinkle features trailing, rooting shoots with pairs of dark green, glossy leaves providing year-round foliage. It blooms from mid spring to late summer and produces small violet blue flowers roughly 3cm across in size.
Vinca minor thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including poor soils, and prefers partial to full shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Its dense growth habit and attractive foliage make Lesser Periwinkle a practical and decorative choice for garden ground cover.
AKA: lesser periwinkle, lady’s flower, running myrtle, small periwinkle, trailing myrtle, wintergreen
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
