Lesser Periwinkle (Vinca minor 'Honeydew') is one of the most reliable and widely planted ground covers in North American gardens, thriving in hardiness zones 4 through 8. This evergreen spreader hugs the ground at 3 to 6 inches tall while spreading 6 to 18 inches wide, producing delicate lavender-blue, phlox-like flowers that bloom from May through June and often continue sporadically into fall. It tolerates nearly everything a difficult site can throw at it, heavy shade, drought, poor soil, and erosion, while requiring minimal maintenance once established.
Partial Sun
Moderate
4-8
6in H x 18in W
—
Low
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Trailing stems with smooth, evergreen foliage root themselves as they creep across the ground, rapidly filling in areas where other plants struggle. The showy lavender-blue flowers appear in spring and early summer, nestled along the leaf nodes, and the plant's low stature and dense habit make it effective at suppressing weeds without constant fussing. Deer leave it untouched, and it handles everything from full sun to deep shade with equal composure.
Lesser Periwinkle is planted almost exclusively as a ground cover for difficult sites, especially on slopes or under trees where shade and poor soil prevent other plants from taking hold. It is also used to naturalize areas, spreading gradually to create a cohesive carpet of green and blue throughout the growing season.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Transplant rooted cuttings or nursery-grown plants into the garden in spring or fall. Space them 8 to 18 inches apart depending on how quickly you want coverage, using closer spacing for small areas and wider spacing for large drifts. Soil should be average and well-drained; amend heavily shaded sites with humus if the soil is compacted.
No formal pruning is necessary for Lesser Periwinkle. However, you can shear back the foliage in early spring if it becomes overgrown or if you want to encourage a tidier, more compact appearance. Trim back any stems that wander aggressively into unwanted areas.
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