Common European Periwinkles

Taxonomical Variation

• Common periwinkle (V. minor) and bigleaf periwinkle (V. major) are the only species that are regularly cultivated and distributed. Intermediate periwinkle (V. difformis), erecta periwinkle (V. erecta) and herbaceous periwinkle (V. herbacea) only grow in a limited geographical range and are rarely found elsewhere. There are dozens of cultivars of both the common and bigleaf periwinkle species currently in circulation. Some popular variations include Alba (V. major and V. minor), Sterling Silver (V. minor) and Pubescens (V. major).

Characteristics

• Periwinkles are perennial evergreen vines that grow as a sprawling mass of foliage and stems. The twisting growth of the plant can layer over itself to reach a height of 6 to 8 inches. Individual stems often grow to about 6 or 7 feet long, but they are able to extend well beyond this length in favorable growing conditions. The glossy leaves of the common periwinkle are 1 to 2 inches long and 1/2 to 1 inch wide. The duller foliage of the bigleaf species is significantly broader and can grow up to 3 inches long. Periwinkles produce small, simple flowers that can bloom in several shades of blue, purple and white.

Growth and Propagation

• Periwinkles are capable of incredibly fast growth and regeneration. They can make noticeable progress in a matter of days, which makes them a top choice for ground cover in landscaping. Periwinkles propagate themselves autonomously --- they do not rely on sexual reproduction to spread. Some of their woody stems, the ones that don't bear flowers, are able to produce roots on their own when they come into contact with the ground. Even a small section can grow by itself when severed from the main plant. This makes it especially difficult to control and eradicate.

Environment and Climate

• Periwinkles thrive in partially shaded areas, but they can grow in both full shade and sun as well. They require a moderate amount of moisture to support their rapid, expansive growth pattern. Well-drained, fertile soil is ideal for all types of periwinkle. However, they are particularly resilient to adverse environmental conditions. They can survive an extended period of drought and can spread through low-quality soil. Their native range encompasses much of southern continental Europe, including Spain, Switzerland and northern Italy.