Creeping myrtle, scientifically known as Vinca minor (and often called Periwinkle), is a popular evergreen groundcover prized for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. This definitive guide covers everything you need to know to successfully grow and manage this plant, distinguishing it clearly from unrelated species like Crape Myrtle. Whether you’re considering Vinca for erosion control or seeking low-maintenance groundcover, understanding proper care techniques is essential for success.
Table of Contents
Creeping Myrtle (Vinca Minor) At-a-Glance
Here are the essential facts about this versatile groundcover:
• Botanical Name: Vinca minor • Common Names: Periwinkle, Common Periwinkle, Lesser Periwinkle • Plant Type: Evergreen perennial groundcover • Key Features: Glossy dark green leaves, typically blue-purple (or white/lavender) flowers in spring, trailing habit • Primary Uses: Groundcover for shade/part-shade, erosion control, underplanting • Important Note: Distinctly different from Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia), which is a tree/shrub
Understanding these basics helps ensure you’re selecting the right plant for your specific gardening needs.
Unmasking the Real Creeping Myrtle: Vinca Minor Explained
Many gardeners encounter confusion when researching creeping myrtle, often mixing it up with entirely different plants. Let’s clarify exactly what Vinca minor is and how to identify it correctly.
Understanding Vinca Minor: Characteristics & Identification
Creeping myrtle displays several distinctive characteristics that make identification straightforward:
Foliage: Small, oval-shaped leaves measuring 1-2 inches long with glossy, dark green surfaces. The leaves remain evergreen in most climates, providing year-round ground coverage.
Flowers: Five-petaled blooms typically appear in spring (April-May), most commonly in blue-purple shades, though white and lavender varieties exist. Individual flowers measure about 1 inch across.
Growth Habit: True to its name, this plant creeps along the ground via trailing stems that root at leaf nodes, creating dense mats. Mature height rarely exceeds 6 inches, while spread can reach several feet per plant.
Root System: Develops both fibrous roots and adventitious roots at stem nodes, contributing to its excellent soil-holding properties.
Creeping Myrtle vs. Crape Myrtle: Avoiding Common Confusion
Despite similar names, these plants couldn’t be more different:
| Characteristic | Creeping Myrtle (Vinca minor) | Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia) |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Low groundcover | Tree or large shrub |
| Height | 4-6 inches | 6-25+ feet |
| Flowers | Small, 5-petaled, spring blooming | Large clusters, summer blooming |
| Primary Use | Groundcover, erosion control | Ornamental tree, specimen plant |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance | Regular pruning required |
The confusion stems from similar-sounding names, but recognizing these differences prevents costly gardening mistakes.
Is it the Same as Vinca major (Greater Periwinkle)?
While closely related, Vinca major differs from creeping myrtle in several important ways. Vinca major features larger leaves (2-3 inches), more aggressive spreading habits, and reduced cold hardiness. For most residential applications, Vinca minor proves more manageable and appropriate.
Pros and Cons: Is Creeping Myrtle Right for Your Garden?
Before planting creeping myrtle, consider both its advantages and potential challenges to make an informed decision.
Top Benefits of Growing Creeping Myrtle
Excellent Groundcover Performance: Dense growth effectively suppresses weeds while creating attractive carpet-like coverage in difficult areas.
Exceptional Shade Tolerance: Thrives in partial to full shade where many other groundcovers struggle, making it ideal for woodland gardens and under-tree plantings.
Attractive Evergreen Foliage: Maintains visual interest year-round with glossy, dark green leaves that don’t require seasonal cleanup.
Low Maintenance Requirements: Once established, requires minimal care beyond occasional trimming and basic watering during drought periods.
Superior Erosion Control: Root system effectively stabilizes soil on slopes and banks, preventing erosion while adding beauty.
Natural Deer Resistance: Generally avoided by deer and rabbits, making it suitable for areas with wildlife pressure.
Important Considerations & Potential Drawbacks
Invasiveness Potential: This represents the most significant concern with Vinca plantings. In ideal conditions, creeping myrtle can spread aggressively, potentially overwhelming native plants and escaping garden boundaries.
Competitive Nature: Dense growth may outcompete desirable native wildflowers and small perennials in naturalized settings.
Removal Challenges: Once established, complete removal proves difficult due to the extensive root system and ability to regenerate from small root fragments.
Limited Suitability: Not appropriate for small, formal garden beds or areas requiring precise boundaries without constant maintenance.
How to Plant Creeping Myrtle for Optimal Establishment
Successful creeping myrtle establishment depends on proper timing, location selection, and planting technique.
When is the Best Time to Plant?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer optimal planting conditions. Spring planting allows full growing season establishment, while fall planting takes advantage of cooler temperatures and increased moisture. Avoid midsummer planting when heat stress can compromise establishment.
Choosing the Right Location
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade locations work best. Vinca tolerates some morning sun but struggles in hot afternoon sun, especially in warmer climates.
Soil Conditions: Well-draining soil with consistent moisture provides ideal growing conditions. While adaptable to various soil types, avoid waterlogged or extremely dry locations.
Space Considerations: Plan for 12-18 inch spacing between plants for relatively quick coverage, or 6-12 inches for faster establishment.
Soil Preparation and Planting Technique
- Site Preparation: Remove existing weeds and improve soil with 2-3 inches of compost if needed
- Planting Depth: Set plants at same depth as container, never deeper
- Initial Watering: Apply 1-2 inches of water immediately after planting
- Mulching: Light mulch application helps retain moisture during establishment
Creeping Myrtle Care: Low Maintenance, Not No Maintenance
While creeping myrtle requires minimal care, understanding its basic needs ensures healthy, attractive groundcover.
Watering Requirements
Establishment Period: Provide consistent moisture for first 6-8 weeks after planting. Water deeply 2-3 times weekly rather than frequent shallow watering.
Mature Plants: Drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Deep, weekly watering during summer maintains optimal appearance.
Light and Soil Preferences
Optimal Conditions: Partial shade with morning sun and afternoon shade provides ideal growing conditions. Vinca adapts to various soil types but prefers slightly acidic, organic-rich soil with good drainage.
Tolerance Range: Survives in full shade but may produce fewer flowers. Can handle some full sun in cooler climates but requires consistent moisture.
Fertilizing Vinca: Less is More
General Rule: Fertilizing vinca is typically unnecessary and can encourage overly aggressive growth. Established plants derive adequate nutrition from organic matter in soil.
When to Fertilize: Only apply fertilizer if plants show signs of nutrient deficiency (yellowing leaves, poor growth). Use diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer sparingly in early spring.
Organic Approach: Annual compost application provides gentle nutrition without promoting excessive spreading.
Pruning & Controlling Spread
Regular Maintenance: Trim edges monthly during growing season to maintain boundaries. Use sharp shears to cut back wayward runners.
Annual Renovation: Mow or shear entire planting in late winter/early spring to rejuvenate growth and maintain dense coverage.
Containment Strategies: Install root barriers or regular edging to prevent spread into unwanted areas. Consider surrounding with hardscaping or maintained lawn areas.
Beyond Basic Blue: Popular Creeping Myrtle Varieties
Several Vinca cultivars offer different aesthetic options while maintaining the species’ groundcover benefits:
‘Bowles’ Variety’: Features larger, more abundant blue flowers and vigorous growth habit. Excellent for quick coverage in larger areas.
‘Alba’: Pure white flowers create elegant contrast with dark green foliage. Perfect for brightening shaded areas or moon gardens.
‘Ralph Shugert’: Distinctive variegated foliage with green centers and creamy white edges. Slower spreading than species, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
‘Atropurpurea’: Deep purple-blue flowers provide rich color display. Slightly more compact growth habit than typical species.
Solving Creeping Myrtle Problems: Pests, Diseases & Issues
Creeping myrtle encounters few serious problems, but awareness of potential issues helps maintain healthy plantings.
Common Disease Issues
Vinca Stem Canker (Phomopsis Blight): Most serious disease affecting Vinca. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stem dieback, and black spots on stems.
Prevention: Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected plant material immediately.
Treatment: Apply fungicide containing copper or thiophanate-methyl at first sign of disease.
Environmental Stress Symptoms
Yellowing Leaves: Usually indicates overwatering, poor drainage, or excessive sun exposure. Adjust watering schedule and consider relocating if necessary.
Poor Growth: Often results from inappropriate location (too much sun) or compacted soil. Improve soil drainage and provide shade if needed.
Design Ideas: Using Creeping Myrtle Effectively in Your Landscape
Creeping myrtle serves multiple landscape functions when properly implemented:
Underplanting Strategy: Excellent beneath large shrubs and trees where grass struggles. Creates attractive layered landscape appearance.
Slope Stabilization: Ideal for erosion-prone banks and hillsides. Root system holds soil while flowers add seasonal interest.
Pathway Edging: Provides soft border for garden paths when contained with edging. Regular trimming maintains neat appearance.
Woodland Gardens: Perfect companion for shade-loving perennials like hostas, ferns, and hellebores. Creates natural-looking groundcover in naturalized settings.
Container Applications: Works well in large containers or hanging baskets where spreading is controlled naturally.
Your Creeping Myrtle Questions Answered (FAQ)
Is creeping myrtle poisonous to dogs, cats, or humans?
Vinca contains alkaloids that are mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities. While not typically dangerous, keep pets and children from eating the plant. Contact veterinarian or poison control if significant ingestion occurs.
How fast does creeping myrtle spread?
Established creeping myrtle can spread 1-2 feet per year in ideal conditions. Spreading rate depends on growing conditions, with faster growth in moist, shaded areas.
Will creeping myrtle choke out other plants?
Yes, dense Vinca growth can suppress smaller plants and compete with tree/shrub roots. Monitor plantings and maintain appropriate boundaries to prevent overwhelming desirable plants.
How do I get rid of creeping myrtle if it becomes too invasive?
Complete removal requires digging up all plant material including roots. Herbicide application (glyphosate) may be necessary for extensive infestations. Multiple treatments over 2-3 seasons often required for complete elimination.
Can I grow creeping myrtle in containers?
Creeping myrtle grows well in containers 12+ inches wide. Provides excellent trailing effect in hanging baskets or as spillover plant in mixed containers. Requires regular watering as containers dry faster than ground plantings.
Does creeping myrtle attract bees or pollinators?
Vinca flowers attract some pollinators including bees and butterflies, though not considered a major pollinator plant. Benefits wildlife while providing groundcover function.
Creeping Myrtle: A Beautiful Groundcover When Managed Wisely
Creeping myrtle offers exceptional value as shade-tolerant groundcover when gardeners understand its growth characteristics and management requirements. Its evergreen foliage, spring flowers, and low maintenance needs make it attractive for challenging landscape situations.
Success with Vinca depends on choosing appropriate locations, understanding its spreading nature, and implementing regular boundary maintenance. When planted responsibly with proper containment strategies, creeping myrtle provides years of reliable groundcover performance.
Consider your specific garden conditions, maintenance capabilities, and long-term landscape goals before incorporating this vigorous groundcover. With proper planning and care, fertilizing vinca becomes unnecessary as the plant thrives naturally in suitable conditions.
What are your experiences with creeping myrtle? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!
