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Description
Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is a low-growing evergreen groundcover plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in North America. This plant is known for its glossy green leaves and beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom from spring to fall. It grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide, making it the perfect choice for rock gardens, edging, and groundcover. It is also commonly known as Dwarf Periwinkle or Myrtle.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
Appearance
Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert has glossy green leaves that are ovate to lance-shaped and measure around 1-2 inches long. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and have a leathery texture. The beautiful blue-violet flowers of this plant have a diameter of around 1 inch and have five petals. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and are shaped like a funnel. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide.
Care Guide
Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade, but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is generally a pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it may be occasionally affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Diseases that may affect this plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant healthy by providing it with the right growing conditions and regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or diseases.
Habitat
Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in North America. It grows in a variety of habitats including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. This plant prefers well-draining soil and partial to full shade. It is commonly used as a groundcover or edging plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert a good groundcover plant?
A: Yes, Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is an excellent groundcover plant. It grows low to the ground and spreads quickly, making it a great choice for covering large areas.
Q: How often should I water Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert?
A: Water Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the best time to plant Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert?
A: The best time to plant Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert is in the spring or fall. Plant the seedlings or cuttings in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they establish roots.
Q: Can Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert grow in full sun?
A: Vinca Minor Ralph Shugert prefers partial to full shade, but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. If you live in a hot climate, make sure to provide the plant with some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Related Plants
- Vinca Major
- Vinca difformis
- Vinca herbacea
- Vinca erecta
References
- “Vinca minor ‘Ralph Shugert’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=254580.
- “Vinca Minor (Dwarf Periwinkle).” Garden Design. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/vinca-minor.html.
- “Vinca Minor.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/vinca-minor.html.
