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Greater periwinkle
Also known as: Blue periwinkle, Big periwinkle
Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is an evergreen shrub native to the Western Mediterranean. It features lavender-colored flowers, and thick, lustrous deep green foliage. To avoid garden invasion and also for ornamental purposes, it's best to grow this plant in hanging pots or in window containers.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Vine, Herb
Plant Type
Late spring, Summer
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter, Late winter
Harvest Time
25 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
1 m
Spread
Green, Yellow
Leaf Color
3 cm to 5 cm
Flower Size
Blue, Purple, White, Green, Violet
Flower Color
Blue, Brown
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Greater periwinkle

Distribution of Greater periwinkle

Distribution Map
Greater periwinkle is naturally found in Mediterranean regions and has been introduced to multiple continents, where it thrives in various temperate zones. Greater periwinkle is cultivated for ornamental purposes and is sometimes thought to be potentially invasive in certain areas, particularly where it has the ability to establish itself in mild climates. Although greater periwinkle contributes to garden aesthetics, it may have an impact on ecosystems, particularly in locations where it competes with native flora.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Copses, Hedgerows
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is a vigorous evergreen shrub that is loved for its blue and violet blooms. It grows in a dense clump or mat which means it makes an excellent ground cover plant, especially when combined with early-flowering hellebores. However, it isn't the most common garden plant because of its aggressive growth. This plant grows well with oriental hellebores and pulmonarias and looks great in cottage, informal, coastal, and city gardens.
Symbolism
Love, serenity, calm, winter ice
Name Story
Bigleaf periwinkle: Periwinkle is a name that is used particularly for the plants in the Vinca genus. In order to distinguish the plants of this genus, they are named according to the different characteristics of each plant. Like most Vinca plants, the flowers of this plant grow distortedly with five petals, which resemble a windmill. Furthermore, its most unique feature is its leaves. Compared with other Vinca plants, the leaves are bigger and can grow to 2-9 centimeters. Also, the plant species added the specific epithet, major which refers to the meaning of bigger, so it is called bigleaf periwinkle.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Greater periwinkle, including the following common varieties :

Toxicity

All parts of the greater periwinkle are mildly toxic to humans when ingested, causing symptoms from mild abdominal pain to serious cardiac issues. Greater periwinkle is also toxic to cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal distress and more severe symptoms upon ingestion. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial for pets, and preventive measures should be taken to keep them safe.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Greater periwinkle

Quickly Identify Greater periwinkle

1
Vivid blue-to-violet blossoms, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide, with five petal-like lobes.
2
Opposite, evergreen leaves, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long, with prominent veins and ciliolate margins.
3
Smooth-textured stem, erect yet arching, with milky latex and light green to greenish-brown color.
4
Solitary, violet-hued flowers, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide, radially symmetrical with five lobes.
5
Cylindrical fruit, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, splitting upon drying to disperse seeds.
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Care Guide for Greater periwinkle

Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Originating from the Mediterranean, greater periwinkle thrives in moderately moist conditions. It prefers consistently damp soil, tolerating brief dry spells, with weekly watering recommended. As an evergreen, greater periwinkle maintains foliage year-round, necessitating careful watering during the growing season for optimal growth and vigor.
Fertilize: Fertilize greater periwinkle with a balanced 10-10-10 formula monthly in spring and summer, using 1 tablespoon per square foot. Avoid over-fertilization and use half-strength for young greater periwinkle. Reduce feeding in winter. Always wear gloves and follow instructions for safe application.
Pruning: Greater periwinkle is a hardy, evergreen plant with blue-purple flowers. Prune in early to later spring to encourage healthy growth and robust flowering. Trim overgrown stems and remove dead foliage to prevent disease. Regular maintenance prevents invasiveness and maintains shape.
Propagation: Greater periwinkle can be propagated in Spring and Summer from herbaceous cuttings with medium difficulty. Successful signs include new growth and root development. Use cuttings from healthy plants and maintain a warm, moist environment for optimal results.
Repotting: Repot greater periwinkle every 2-3 years in spring, using a wide, shallow container to support its sprawling growth. After repotting, provide adequate moisture and indirect light for recovery. This hardy plant adapts easily, ensuring straightforward aftercare.
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