Description
Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’, also known as Purple Periwinkle, is a low-growing evergreen ground cover with deep green leaves that have a purple tint. In spring, it produces an abundance of deep purple, star-shaped flowers that add a pop of color to any garden. This hardy plant is ideal for edging paths or as a ground cover in shady areas, and it is also deer-resistant. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade, making it a great choice for woodland gardens. ‘Atropurpurea’ can also be used in container plantings or hanging baskets for a trailing effect.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Purple Periwinkle
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ can grow to a height of 0.1m and a spread of 1.2m.
- Did You Know That:Periwinkle comes from the Latin pervinca which translates as thoroughly bind?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Flowering Time |  |
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
| Foliage Colour |  |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ thrives in wet or damp soil with decent drainage or in poorly draining soil. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ can handle either an exposed or a sheltered position and is a very versatile plant that can cope with full shade, partial shade, or full sun.
Maintenance
Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ will benefit from pruning in Spring. Shrubs that produce their flowers in mid to late Summer or Autumn, typically flower on new growth, so by reducing the shrub in Spring you encourage lots of new, flower producing growth.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ can have problems with aphids, it can be vulnerable to certain diseases such as rust. It is also known to attract bees. It is toxic to cats, dogs and horses.
