Product description
Vinca Minor Bowles Variety is a lesser vigorous growing variety of Vinca that features larger leaves and flowers in more numbers. It is an evergreen low-growing plant that spreads instead of rising high and is suitable for groundcover. Also known as Creeping Myrtle or Lesser Periwinkle, this perennial creates a dense mat of dark green leaves, decorated with bright azure-blue flowers. Its trailing stems will quickly spread as soon as they touch any bare ground.
Bowles Variety produces large ovate, dark green glossy leaves that will add year-round interest in your garden. Throughout the spring and sporadically in summer to autumn, the plant will bloom 5 petaled pinwheel-shaped flowers that are rich azure-blue in colour. These flowers really standout appearing bright as they contrast against the lustrous foliage. Vinca Minor is a lesser vigorous grower and less invasive in nature.
This Lesser Periwinkle is shade tolerant and prefers shady spots but it can grow well even on sunny slopes. It will thrive in any soil that is moist and well-drained. Its roots strictly dislike dry soil and prefer damp areas of a garden. The leaves of Vinca Minor are prone to scorching in hot sun.
It is an easy to grow plant that will cope with neglect and thrive on its own, once it is established. Water the new plants well and they can be easily relocated too. Its compact growing habit will save you from excessive pruning efforts. Simply use a mower to cut back hard in spring, to give it a tidy shape, but only after the flowering.
Vinca Minor Bowles Variety makes attractive groundcover and is perfect for suppressing weeds. Use it on sunny slopes and banks where it will also help in controlling soil erosion. The trailing habit of this wonderful plant make it look lovely in a hanging basket.
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune vinca plants regularly to encourage dense growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
How to Water
Water vinca regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can cause fungal issues.
How to Plant
Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant, and backfill with soil. Firm gently and water thoroughly. Space plants 15-30cm apart for ground cover or in containers for potted displays.