Vinca minor 'Illumination' - Periwinkle

Vinca minor 'Illumination'

Vibrant Ground Cover for Shaded Areas

Vinca minor 'Illumination', commonly known as Lesser Periwinkle, is a prostrate evergreen perennial with bright yellow, ovate leaves narrowly margined with dark green, and violet-blue flowers. This plant is perfect for adding a splash of color to shaded areas and is ideal for ground cover in gardens.

Why Choose Vinca minor 'Illumination'?

• Vibrant Foliage: Bright yellow leaves with dark green margins create a striking contrast.

• Long Blooming Period: Violet-blue flowers bloom from mid-spring to early autumn, providing months of color.

• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and maintain, making it perfect for gardeners of all levels.

• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

• Versatile: Suitable for planting in containers, under trees, or as a ground cover in borders.

Care Instructions

Light Requirements: Thrives in partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging the soil.

Fertiliser: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Pruning: Trim back overgrown stems in spring to maintain a neat appearance and encourage new growth.

Planting Advice

• Spacing: Space plants approximately 30-50 cm apart to allow for healthy growth and air circulation.

• Planting Time: Best planted in autumn or spring.

• Propagation: Propagate by division in spring or autumn, and by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Vinca minor 'Illumination'

• Common Name: Lesser Periwinkle

• Flower Colour: Violet-blue

• Foliage Colour: Bright yellow with dark green margins

• Mature Height: 10-20 cm

• Mature Spread: 45-60 cm

• Habit: Prostrate, spreading

• Hardiness: Fully hardy (UK zones)

• Sunlight: Partial shade to full shade

• Soil Acidity: Acid, alkaline, neutral

• Soil Moisture: Moist but well-drained

• Life Cycle: Evergreen perennial

• Scented: No

• Pollinator-Friendly: Yes

Where to Use Vinca minor 'Illumination'

• Ideal for shaded areas under trees or shrubs.

• Perfect for ground cover in borders and along pathways.

• Suitable for planting in containers or hanging baskets.

Vinca minor 'Illumination' brings a burst of colour to shaded areas, making it a versatile and attractive choice for any garden. Its vibrant foliage and long blooming period ensure year-round interest and beauty.