Bigleaf Periwinkle

Plant Type: ground cover
Plant Height: 6-18 inches
Spread: variable
Flower Color: blue, violet, purple
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade

Bigleaf Periwinkle (Vinca major): A Vigorous Ground Cover for Colorful, Low-Maintenance Gardens

Bigleaf Periwinkle (Vinca major) is a fast-growing perennial ground cover, prized for its lush, glossy foliage and vibrant, star-shaped flowers. Native to the Mediterranean, this versatile plant is a favorite in landscaping for its ability to quickly fill in large areas, adding both color and greenery with minimal maintenance. However, it’s important to consider its invasive potential in certain regions, as it can spread aggressively.

Key Features of Bigleaf Periwinkle

1. Vibrant, Star-Shaped Flowers
   Bigleaf Periwinkle produces striking blue, violet, or purple blooms in spring, with occasional flowering throughout the growing season. These vibrant, star-shaped flowers add a pop of color to the garden and provide contrast against the plant’s lush green foliage.

2. Glossy, Year-Round Foliage
   The large, oval-shaped leaves are glossy and evergreen, providing year-round interest. The dense, trailing growth habit creates a thick carpet of foliage that can quickly fill in bare spots and suppress weeds, making it ideal for areas needing ground coverage.

3. Rapid Growth and Spreading Habit
   Bigleaf Periwinkle spreads quickly through trailing stems, allowing it to cover large areas in a short time. This growth habit is especially useful for erosion control on slopes, underplanting trees and shrubs, and for areas with poor soil where other plants may struggle.

Growing and Caring for Bigleaf Periwinkle

• Light Requirements: Thrives in partial to full shade; tolerates full sun in cooler climates.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but is adaptable to a variety of soil types.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering in dry periods.
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance, but periodic trimming may be needed to control its spread.

Landscaping Uses

Bigleaf Periwinkle is versatile in landscaping and can be used in several ways:

• Ground Cover: Quickly fills in large areas with dense foliage, ideal for blank spots or low-maintenance gardens.
• Underplanting: Works well under trees and shrubs, thriving in shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
• Erosion Control: Helps stabilize slopes and banks with its extensive root system and sprawling habit.
• Container Gardens: Adds greenery and trailing blooms to container arrangements.

Caution: Potential for Invasiveness

In some areas, Bigleaf Periwinkle is considered invasive and can spread beyond intended planting areas, outcompeting native plants. Gardeners should check local regulations and consider controlling its spread through containment or regular pruning.

Summary

Bigleaf Periwinkle is a popular choice for low-maintenance ground coverage, combining vibrant flowers, lush foliage, and resilience in challenging growing conditions. Its rapid growth, ease of care, and adaptability make it a favored choice for gardeners seeking a solution for large areas, shaded spots, or erosion control. However, responsible planting and maintenance are essential to prevent unwanted spreading.