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Description
The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll, also known as Gertrude Jekyll Periwinkle, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly used as a ground cover due to its dense foliage and beautiful flowers. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple, which bloom from mid-spring to early summer. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
Appearance
The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 6 inches in height and up to 2 feet in width. The leaves are evergreen, glossy, and oval-shaped, measuring up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are small, measuring up to 1 inch in diameter, and are produced in clusters of 2-3. They come in shades of pink and purple and have a white center. The plant blooms from mid-spring to early summer and produces sporadic blooms throughout the rest of the growing season.
Care Guide
Water: The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll prefers moderate moisture levels and should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this may cause root rot.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring.Soil: The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some sun exposure, especially in cooler climates.Hardiness Zones: The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and root rot, if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects may also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. It is commonly used as a ground cover in landscaping due to its dense foliage and beautiful flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll toxic to pets?A: Yes, the plant is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested.Q: How often should I prune my Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll?A: The plant does not require regular pruning, but can be trimmed back in early spring to promote bushier growth.Q: Can the Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll be grown in containers?A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: Does the Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll attract pollinators?A: Yes, the plant is attractive to bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Vinca Major
- Vinca Rosea
- Apocynum Cannabinum
References
- “Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c487.
- “Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll.” The Spruce, thespruce.com/vinca-minor-gertrude-jekyll-plant-profile-5076323.
- “Vinca Minor Gertrude Jekyll.” Gardenia.net, gardenia.net/plant/vinca-minor-gertrude-jekyll-periwinkle.
