Greater periwinkle
vinca major
Also known as: ["Big periwinkle","Large periwinkle","Greater myrtle"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen trailing vine with glossy, oval leaves and violet-blue flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Vinca |
| Botanical Name: | Vinca major |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: ground cover in shaded garden areas or as a container plant
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; cactus mix or succulent soil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if plant becomes leggy or overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; for indoor plants, place near east-facing windows or use sheer curtains to filter light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in hot climates; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; adjust for seasonal changes.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of rooted runners is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch; trim runners to prevent excessive spreading.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to control spread and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or overgrown stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or diseased stems; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; Vinca major can become invasive if not contained.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root rot.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in cold spells; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; rapid water loss may stress the plant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Vinca major may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The vinca alkaloids present in the plant can cause mild irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Vinca major can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of vinca alkaloids. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVinca major contains vinca alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vinca major invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its vigorous growth and spreading habit.
Q: Does Vinca major require full sun?
A: No, it thrives in partial shade to full shade.
Q: Is Vinca major toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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