Vinca (periwinkle) — Matforming

Overview

Vinca is a matforming shrubs in the genus Vinca, part of the Apocynaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Vinca grows best in full sun, partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, low maintenance, banks and slopes, flower borders and beds, ground cover and underplanting of roses and shrubs.

About

Vinca is an Old World genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae. The English name periwinkle is shared with the related genus Catharanthus.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Vinca

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade, Full shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Vinca size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Matforming
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance, Banks and slopes, Flower borders and beds, Ground cover, Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Vinca

Propagation: Division, Semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids
Disease resistance: Rust diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Vinca?

Vinca prefers full sun, partial shade and full shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Vinca need?

Vinca is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Vinca hardy in the UK?

Vinca has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Vinca?

Division, Semi-ripe cuttings.

More in the Vinca genus

Browse all Vinca →