The large periwinkle Vinca major, like the related small periwinkle Vinca minor, belongs to the dogpoison family and is relatively poisonous. But that doesn't detract from its popularity in many private gardens.
Is Vinca Major poisonous?
The large periwinkle Vinca major is poisonous because it contains vincamine, which has a strong lowering effect on blood pressure and can negatively affect blood counts. If handled and sited correctly, it can still be used as an attractive ground cover in the garden.
Tradition as a medicinal plant and toxic ingredients
The periwinkle was once considered an effective remedy for various types of he alth problems, which is why it was planted in many monastery and castle gardens. Nowadays, its use in medicine is only extremely limited, as it can cause severe side effects and severe symptoms of poisoning if dosage errors are made. The vincamine contained in all parts of the plant has a strong lowering effect on blood pressure and is suspected of having extremely negative effects on blood counts.
Weigh the dangers correctly
The fact that the toxins contained in the tendrils and leaves of Vinca major does not mean that planting a pretty flowering carpet of this ground cover in the garden must be avoided. Finally, the following plants are poisonous and are still found in many private gardens:
- Cherry Laurel
- Angel Trumpet
- Thuja (one of the most common hedge plants)
- Monkshood
- Gold Rain
- Autumn Crocus
However, you can take certain measures to ensure that accidents with poisonous garden plants do not occur. Do not allow children and pets to play unsupervised in a garden with poisonous plants. In addition, poisonous plants can be planted in the middle of flower beds or at least not grown directly next to the terrace.
Tip
Vinca major is poisonous not only to humans, but also to birds and other animals. Therefore, make sure that your pets are not tempted to nibble on the shoots of the evergreen.
