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Description
Vinca Major Subsp. Major, commonly known as Greater Periwinkle, is an evergreen groundcover plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Central and Southern Europe, but can also be found in Asia and North Africa. Its scientific name is derived from the Latin word ‘vincio’, which means ‘to bind’ or ‘to twine’, referring to its ability to spread rapidly and cover the ground.This plant produces trailing stems that can grow up to 3 meters long. The leaves are evergreen, glossy, and oval-shaped, with a dark green color that turns bronze in the winter. The flowers are large, funnel-shaped, and can be white or shades of blue or purple. They bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by small, round fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
Appearance
Vinca Major Subsp. Major is an attractive groundcover that can add color and texture to any garden. Its glossy, dark green leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 9 cm long. The flowers are large, funnel-shaped, and can be white or shades of blue or purple. They can grow up to 5 cm wide and are produced in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits are small, round, and can be up to 1.5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Vinca Major Subsp. Major is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires little maintenance once established. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy and happy:- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage growth and flowering.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Vinca Major Subsp. Major can grow in full sun to partial shade. It prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vinca Major Subsp. Major is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. Other potential problems include spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, make sure your plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Vinca Major Subsp. Major is native to Central and Southern Europe, but can also be found in Asia and North Africa. It grows in a range of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky outcrops. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vinca Major Subsp. Major grow in full sun?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Does Vinca Major Subsp. Major attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Vinca Major Subsp. Major?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage growth and flowering.
Q: Is Vinca Major Subsp. Major deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
Related Plants
– Vinca Minor- Vinca difformis- Vinca herbacea- Vinca erecta- Vinca major var. oxyloba
References
– “Vinca Major.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/278765/vinca-major/details.- “Vinca Major.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=263032&isprofile=0&.- “Vinca Major.” Gardening Know How, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/vinca/growing-vinca-major.htm.
