Vinca Minor Atropurpurea

Description

Vinca Minor Atropurpurea, also known as Purple Periwinkle, is a trailing plant with deep purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is native to Central and Southern Europe. This plant is widely used as a ground cover due to its ability to spread rapidly and form a dense mat of foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Vinca Minor Atropurpurea are dark green with a glossy texture and grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers are a vibrant shade of deep purple and have five petals. They bloom in the spring and summer and are about 1 inch in diameter. This plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and spread up to 18 inches wide. It has a trailing habit and can be used as a ground cover.

Care Guide

Vinca Minor Atropurpurea is a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and fertilization. It grows best in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.

Water

Water Vinca Minor Atropurpurea regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Fertilize Vinca Minor Atropurpurea once every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Soil

Plant Vinca Minor Atropurpurea in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.

Sunlight

Vinca Minor Atropurpurea grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Vinca Minor Atropurpurea is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew.

Habitat

Vinca Minor Atropurpurea is native to Central and Southern Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, hillsides, and along roadsides. It is widely grown as a ground cover and ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Vinca Minor Atropurpurea poisonous?

A: Yes, Vinca Minor Atropurpurea is toxic if ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if consumed in large quantities.

Q: How often should I water Vinca Minor Atropurpurea?

A: Water Vinca Minor Atropurpurea regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Q: Can Vinca Minor Atropurpurea grow in full shade?

A: Vinca Minor Atropurpurea prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.

Q: How do I fertilize Vinca Minor Atropurpurea?

A: Fertilize Vinca Minor Atropurpurea once every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Related Plants

• Vinca Major
• Periwinkle
• Catharanthus
• Nerium oleander

References

• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/vinca/growing-vinca-minor.htm
• https://www.thespruce.com/growing-periwinkle-1402622
• https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/vinca.html