Overview

Vinca major 'Variegata' is a matforming climber in the genus Vinca, part of the Apocynaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Vinca major 'Variegata' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover. It is native to Mediterranean region.

About

Vinca major, the greater periwinkle, also sometimes called bigleaf periwinkle, large periwinkle or blue periwinkle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. Growing to 25 cm (10 in) tall and spreading indefinitely, it is an evergreen perennial, frequently used in cultivation as a ground cover.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Vinca major

About the genus

Vinca is an Old World genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae. The English name periwinkle is shared with the related genus Catharanthus. Some Vinca species are cultivated but have also spread invasively.

Wikipedia contributors, "Vinca", CC BY-SA 4.0Vinca

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Vinca

Sunlight
Full sun, Full shade
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Vinca major 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Climber
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5 m
Suggested uses
Ground cover
Native to
Mediterranean region

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Vinca major 'Variegata'

Propagation
Cuttings, layering
Pest resistance
Aphids
Disease resistance
Rust diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Vinca major 'Variegata'?

Vinca major 'Variegata' prefers full sun and full shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Vinca major 'Variegata' need?

Vinca major 'Variegata' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How big does Vinca major 'Variegata' grow?

Vinca major 'Variegata' reaches a height of 0.5 m.

Is Vinca major 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?

Vinca major 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Vinca major 'Variegata'?

Cuttings, layering.

More in the Vinca genus

Browse all Vinca