Periwinkle—or *Vinca minor*, if you want to get fancy—is one of those garden staples that never fails to wow visitors with its lush, carpet-like blooms. If you thought these beauties only came in classic purple, you’re in for a treat! You can actually find varieties in shades of red, white, and deep blue. Honestly, mixing a few different colors together creates a stunning, vibrant look for any yard.
Bloom Time and Flower Shape
You’ll usually see the first peek of color in April or May. One of the reasons I love *Vinca* as a flowering groundcover is its staying power; after that big spring show, it keeps right on blooming with smaller “after-blooms” all the way through September. The flowers themselves have five petals and a cool funnel-shaped tube at the center. Depending on the variety and where you plant them, the blooms can range from about 1 to 2 inches wide. Just don’t go looking for berries—this plant doesn’t produce any fruit. If you’re ready to get some in the ground, check out our guide on proper spacing.
A Rainbow of Varieties
While standard violet is the “classic” look, there’s a whole world of color out there. If you’re looking for something specific, “Alba” or “Elisa” are gorgeous in white, “Atropurpurea” brings a moody red-wine vibe, “Bowles” offers a stunning deep blue, and “Austria” features lovely reddish-violet petals.
A Quick Safety Note
As much as we love it, *Vinca minor* is part of the Dogbane family (Apocynaceae). You might hear it called “Maiden’s Myrtle” or “Lesser Periwinkle.” It’s easy to recognize by its shiny, lance-shaped green leaves, but keep in mind that the entire plant is toxic. If you have curious toddlers or pets who like to snack on the greenery, you’ll want to be extra careful, as ingesting it can cause some serious issues.
The Secret to a Lush Carpet
To get the most out of your blooms, you’ll want to find a spot in partial to full shade. These plants love soil that is fresh, loose, and rich in organic matter (humus). When the conditions are just right, you’ll be rewarded with a sea of flowers that bees absolutely adore. Plus, it’s super easy to propagate and spread to other corners of your garden. For a low-maintenance perennial that delivers big results, you really can’t go wrong with Periwinkle!
