A good ground cover is an essential element in gardening and landscaping, as it helps to fill in empty spaces, suppress weeds, and provide a uniform and attractive look to the garden. One such ground cover that is highly recommended is the Common Periwinkle, also known as Vinca Minor or Creeping Myrtle.
Common Periwinkle is a versatile and hardy plant that is well-suited for various garden settings. It has glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any landscape. The leaves are small and oval-shaped, creating a dense carpet-like effect when grown in large quantities. This ground cover forms a thick and lush mat, effectively covering bare ground and preventing soil erosion.
One of the standout features of Common Periwinkle is its charming violet-blue flowers that bloom in spring. These flowers add a splash of color to the garden and create a vibrant and eye-catching display. The blooms are small and delicate, but they are abundant, creating a carpet of color that is truly mesmerizing. The flowers also have a mild fragrance, which adds to the overall appeal of this ground cover.
Another great attribute of Common Periwinkle is its ability to spread quickly. Once established, it sends out runners or creeping stems that root wherever they touch the ground. This rapid spreading nature makes it an excellent choice for covering large areas that need coverage. It can easily fill in empty spaces between other plants and create a cohesive and well-filled garden bed.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Common Periwinkle is also a low-maintenance ground cover. It is a drought-tolerant plant, which means it can withstand periods of dry weather without much water. This makes it an ideal choice for areas with limited rainfall or for gardeners who prefer plants that require minimal care. It is also relatively pest and disease resistant, further adding to its low-maintenance nature.
I have personally used Common Periwinkle as a ground cover in my own garden, and I have been impressed with its performance. It quickly established itself and spread throughout the designated area, effectively covering the bare ground and creating a lush green carpet. The violet-blue flowers were a delight to behold, attracting bees and butterflies to my garden. I found it to be a reliable and attractive ground cover that required little attention from me.
A good ground cover should be able to fill in empty spaces, suppress weeds, and provide an attractive and uniform look to the garden. Common Periwinkle, with its glossy dark green leaves and charming violet-blue flowers, is an excellent choice for achieving these goals. Its rapid spreading nature, low maintenance requirements, and drought tolerance make it a versatile and reliable ground cover option. Whether used in large areas or in smaller garden beds, Common Periwinkle can add beauty and functionality to any landscape.
