Also known as Big Periwinkle · Big-Leaf Periwinkle · Big-Leaved Periwinkle
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is a vigorous evergreen groundcover with glossy leaves and showy blue-purple flowers in spring and summer. It's adaptable and spreads rea
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Sun
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow slight drying between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C (59-75°F). Avoid frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Contains vincristine and vinblastine, which are cytotoxic alkaloids.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune Vinca major after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Pinching back young shoots can promote a more compact form.
It can be trimmed back hard if it becomes too rampant.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant in moist potting mix or place in water. Roots usually form within a few weeks.
Cuttings can also be layered.
Repot Vinca major every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring before new growth begins.
Water thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major)
Where Greater Periwinkle (Vinca major) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vinca |
| Species | Vinca major |
Similar in genus Vinca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
