Lesser Periwinkle
Vinca minor · Periwinkle · Common Periwinkle · Dwarf Periwinkle · Small Periwinkle · Creeping MyrtleUSDA | Grow Zone
4-9Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- 4-6 hours indirect
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 2 ft wide
- Pets
- Mildly toxic to pets
Vinca minor, commonly known as Lesser Periwinkle, is a versatile ground cover native to Europe. Its attractive evergreen foliage and blue flowers make it a popular choice for gardens, providing year-round interest and erosion control.
Ask Vesper about Lesser Periwinkle
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 2 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Vinca minor prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells, reducing frequency in cooler months. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates.
Ideally, it should receive 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily. In hotter regions, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.
Soil
Vinca minor prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
A mix of loamy soil with organic matter, such as compost, is recommended to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability.
Humidity
While Vinca minor is adaptable to various humidity levels, it thrives in moderate humidity (40-60%).
To increase humidity, mist the leaves or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Vinca minor is 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerating cold down to -30°F (-34°C) and heat up to 90°F (32°C). During extreme temperatures, provide some protection from harsh conditions.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10.
Fertilize in early spring and again in mid-summer. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and yellowing leaves, indicating a need for fertilization.
Pruning
Prune Vinca minor in early spring to control growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts. Deadheading is not necessary, but trimming back after flowering can promote denser growth.
Repotting
Repot Vinca minor every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container.
Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Vinca minor can be propagated through stem cuttings, division, or seeds.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring, remove lower leaves, and place them in a moist potting mix. Keep the soil moist until roots develop, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Division is best done in early spring or fall.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage can lead to yellowing leaves.
How to fix it
Ensure the soil drains well and adjust watering frequency to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil can cause root rot.
How to fix it
Improve drainage by amending the soil with sand or perlite and reduce watering frequency.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or high temperatures can cause wilting.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and ensure it receives adequate moisture, especially during hot weather.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Stress from environmental changes or improper watering.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent watering and avoid sudden changes in light or temperature.
Pest infestations
Why it happens
Aphids and spider mites can infest the plant, especially in dry conditions.
How to fix it
Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead or damaged stems and apply a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth. Ensure adequate moisture as temperatures rise.
Summer
During summer, monitor soil moisture closely, especially during hot spells. Provide some afternoon shade if the plant is in full sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as temperatures cool down. This is a good time to divide the plant if needed, ensuring it has enough time to establish before winter.
Winter
In winter, protect Vinca minor from extreme cold by mulching around the base. Water sparingly, as the plant requires less moisture during dormancy.
Toxicity & Safety
Vinca minor is considered mildly toxic to pets and humans. Ingestion of the plant can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The leaves and stems are the most toxic parts.
Good to know
Why are my Vinca minor leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Vinca minor can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil drains well and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
How often should I water my Vinca minor?
Water Vinca minor deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During dry spells, you may need to increase the frequency.
Can Vinca minor grow in full sun?
Yes, Vinca minor can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates. However, in hotter regions, it benefits from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
How do I propagate Vinca minor?
You can propagate Vinca minor through stem cuttings or division. For cuttings, take 4-6 inch stems in spring and place them in moist potting mix until roots develop.
What type of soil is best for Vinca minor?
Vinca minor prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loamy soil with organic matter is ideal for optimal growth.
Is Vinca minor toxic to pets?
Yes, Vinca minor is mildly toxic to pets and humans. Ingestion can cause nausea and vomiting, so keep it out of reach of pets and children.
When should I prune my Vinca minor?
Prune Vinca minor in early spring to control growth and remove any dead or damaged stems. This encourages denser growth and a healthier plant.
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