Vinca major aka Bigleaf Periwinkle

Taxonomy

Vinca major, commonly known as bigleaf periwinkle, large periwinkle, greater periwinkle, or blue periwinkle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. Native to the western Mediterranean, this evergreen perennial grows up to 25 cm (10 in) tall and spreads indefinitely, making it a popular choice for groundcover. It has arching shoots and glossy, creamy-yellow leaves with dark green margins. From mid-spring to late summer, it produces beautiful violet-blue flowers that can reach up to 5 cm across. Vinca major is a trailing vine that spreads along the ground and roots along the stems, forming dense masses of groundcover that can individually reach 2-5 m across. It can also scramble up to 50-70 cm high. The name "Vinca" is derived from the Latin word "vincire," which means bind, as the long creeping vines were traditionally used to make garlands. This species is found in southern Europe, northern Africa, and lower Himalayan ranges in Asia. It thrives in moist undergrowth, woodlands, hedgerows, and banks along rivers at altitudes ranging from sea level to 800 meters. It is adaptable to both full sun and deep shade.

Common names

Bigleaf Periwinkle, Greater Periwinkle, Periwinkle

How to care for Bigleaf Periwinkle

Difficulty

Bigleaf Periwinkle requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Bigleaf Periwinkle prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Bigleaf Periwinkle’s native range is C. and S. Europe, N. Africa. Naturalized in Britain.


More info:
Wikipedia