The periwinkle is one of the dog poisonous plants and should therefore only be planted in your own garden if it does not pose a danger to small children and pets. The evergreen owes its popularity to its shade tolerance and the decorative flowers in front of the contrast of the evergreen leaves.
Which location conditions does the periwinkle prefer?
The ideal evergreen location offers the following conditions: partial shade, humus-rich and loose soil, constant soil moisture (without waterlogging), occasional compost fertilization. Vinca minor is hardy, while Vinca major prefers milder locations.
Possible uses in garden design
The periwinkle is a creeping subshrub, whereby the small-leaved periwinkle Vinca minor remains significantly lower than its higher-growing relative Vinca major. The evergreen can be used to green flowerbed edges and stone walls, but can also be used to create a green carpet as a lawn replacement in shady parts of the garden.
Provide suitable growing conditions for evergreens in the garden
In nature, periwinkle spreads well, especially in locations in loose deciduous and mixed forests. Today its distribution area extends from southern and central Europe to Asia Minor. In terms of climate, the periwinkle prefers mild locations all year round, but Vinca minor also copes well with extreme winter frosts. The ideal location for the evergreen offers the following requirements:
- if possible in partial shade
- relatively humus-rich and loose soil
- constant soil moisture (but no waterlogging due to too frequent watering)
- occasional fertilization with seasoned compost
Tip
Since the long-distance spread of evergreens occurs almost exclusively through human activity, locations in the forest for this so-called “castle garden refugee” can be an indication of settlement in Roman times or during the Middle Ages.
