Plant library
Ground cover
Periwinkle
Vinca minor
Zones 4–9
A vigorous evergreen vine with glossy leaves and violet-blue spring flowers — the go-to carpet for dry, shady slopes.
Sun
Shade to part shade
Water
low
Spacing
12-18 in apart; spreads 2-3 ft per plant
Soil
Adaptable; tolerates dry shade and most soils (pH 6.0-8.0)
Difficulty
easy
Zones
4–9
When to plant
See care notes for timing in your zone.
Timing shifts with your zone — the Genie can pin down exact dates for you.
How to care for it
Plant in spring or fall, 12-18 in apart under trees or on shaded banks. Water weekly the first year; then it copes with dry shade. Pull stray edges yearly to keep it in bounds.
Good companions
Hellebores, ferns, spring bulbs like daffodils and snowdrops
Harvest
Not edible (mildly toxic); grown purely as a low-maintenance ornamental carpet.
Want a plan for growing Periwinkle?
Your Genie can give exact timing and care for your zone.
