Vinca Minor
Contents
Description
Vinca Minor, commonly known as the lesser periwinkle, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it is also found in North America. The plant is a popular ground cover because it is evergreen and has attractive blue-purple flowers that bloom in the spring. The plant is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for many gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
Appearance
Vinca Minor has glossy, dark green leaves that are about 1 inch in length. The leaves are oval-shaped and grow in pairs opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces small blue-purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide.
Care Guide
Vinca Minor is a low maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Vinca Minor can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade and can burn in full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vinca Minor is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove infected plants and avoid planting in poorly drained soil.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Vinca Minor is native to Europe and Asia but is also found in North America. The plant can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Vinca Minor?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Vinca Minor grow in full sun?
A: Vinca Minor can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade and can burn in full sun.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vinca Minor?
A: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Q: How tall does Vinca Minor grow?
A: The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide.
Related Plants
- Vinca Major
- Periwinkle
- Creeping Myrtle
- Dead Nettle
References
- “Vinca minor.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c810. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
- “Vinca minor.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/63783/Vinca-minor/Details. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
- “Lesser Periwinkle.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/lesser-periwinkle-growing-profile-3269176. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
