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Description
Vinca Herbacea, also known as Appalachian Dwarf Periwinkle, is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the United States. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and is commonly grown as a ground cover due to its attractive, evergreen foliage and beautiful blue-violet flowers. The plant grows up to 6 inches in height and can spread up to 2 feet wide. It blooms from early spring to mid-summer and requires minimal maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
Appearance
Vinca Herbacea has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow up to 1 inch long. The stems are slender and have a reddish tint. The plant produces beautiful blue-violet flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter with five petals. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have a white center. The plant blooms from early spring to mid-summer and is known for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Care Guide
Vinca Herbacea is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: Vinca Herbacea prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Vinca Herbacea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.- Sunlight: Vinca Herbacea prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun.- Hardiness Zones: Vinca Herbacea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vinca Herbacea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to slugs, snails, and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and remove any debris or weeds from around the plant.
Habitat
Vinca Herbacea is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the United States and is typically found in rocky, shaded areas. It is commonly grown as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vinca Herbacea an evergreen plant?
A: Yes, Vinca Herbacea is an evergreen plant.
Q: How often should I water Vinca Herbacea?
A: Water Vinca Herbacea deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Vinca Herbacea?
A: Vinca Herbacea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vinca Herbacea?
A: Vinca Herbacea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
– Vinca Major (Greater Periwinkle)- Vinca Minor (Lesser Periwinkle)- Vinca Rosea (Madagascar Periwinkle)
References
– “Vinca Herbacea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273999. Accessed 16 Nov. 2021.- “Vinca Herbacea.” Plant Information Online, https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1435759. Accessed 16 Nov. 2021.- “Apocynaceae.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Apocynaceae/. Accessed 16 Nov. 2021.
