Periwinkle Plant
Facts About The Periwinkle Plant
There are three species of the Periwinkle plant, members of the genus Vinca. The most common one, a native of northern Europe and commonly known in North America as the Myrtle, is Vinca major. Vinca major is an evergreen perennial which, due to its trailing habit, is extensively used as a ground cover. Though useful and attractive in landscaped areas, in some locations it can become extremely invasive if not monitored rather closely. Vinca major can be found in most areas of the United States as it is hardy to USDA Zone 5.
Vinca Major - The Vinca major species of the Periwinkle plant sends out long trailing vines which, similar to some strawberry plants, set roots on the way to their destination. The plant has glossy dark green leaves, though there are varieties having green and white variegated leaves. The blossoms, usually blooming in profusion, vary from lavender blue to a deep purplish blue, and are typically between 1 and 2 inches across. In warmer areas, Vinca major is an evergreen, while in cooler climates it takes on more of characteristics of a perennial, dying back during the colder months and reemerging in the spring. Vinca major is a very hardy plant, it is fairly drought tolerant, especially if grown in the shade where it tends to grow best. If grown in full sun, the plant may have to be watered a bit more often. If allowed to, the Vinca major species will mound up, forming a bush up to 3 feet in height. It can however be trimmed back to the ground, rapidly growing back, usually more dense than ever. Gardeners who rely on Vinca major for either landscaping or ground cover, often prune the plant back to maintain a more pleasing appearance.
Vinca Minor - A second species of the Periwinkle plant is the Dwarf Periwinkle, Vinca minor. Vinca minor is the spitting image of its relative, differing primarily in size. The leaves of Vinca minor are a bit more oblong in shape. Although a bit more difficult to grow in that it requires more watering than does the Vinca major, it is hardy in all growing zones in the United States as well as most of Canada. Vinca minor tends to have a somewhat stronger trailing habit than its larger cousin. Like its cousin, the Dwarf Periwinkle sets roots as it creeps along the ground, quickly establishing ownership over newly discovered territory.
Vinca Rosea - A third species of the Periwinkle plant is Vinca rosea, also called Catharanthus roseus, and the Madagascar Periwinkle plant. Somewhat tropical in nature, the Madagascar Periwinkle is often grown as an annual, though it can be grown as a perennial in warm climates. The blossoms of the Madagascar Periwinkle closely resemble those of phlox, and are either pure white, white tinged with rose, or pinkish. There are however varieties featuring deep crimson blossoms. The Madagascar Periwinkle can be planted from seed, though it is most often purchased in flats from a plant store or nursery. This Periwinkle plant also requires minimal watering, is not choosy about the soil it is placed in, and can be grown in full sun.
Of Medicinal Value - All three species of the Periwinkle plant have a history of medicinal usefulness, dating back a number of centuries. Vinca major has many uses in herbal practice as an astringent and general tonic, and Periwinkle tea is often taken as a healing agent, and also used as a gargle to heal or soothe sore throats and inflamed tonsils. Of the many medicinal claims made for the Periwinkle plant, many are valid, and just as many belong in the category of wives' tales and folklore.