Vinca Minor Illumination

Common Name:
Illumination Lesser Periwinkle

Description:
Vinca minor 'Illumination', known as Illumination Lesser Periwinkle, is a prostrate evergreen perennial celebrated for its vibrant foliage and charming flowers. The ovate leaves emerge bright yellow with dark green margins, maturing to a rich golden hue before softening to cream. From mid-spring through early autumn, it produces violet-blue flowers approximately 2.5 cm in diameter, adding a splash of colour over an extended period. This low-growing plant forms a dense mat, making it an excellent ground cover option. It thrives in full sun to part shade, preferring well-drained soils, and is both drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established. In Melbourne's climate, 'Illumination' performs admirably, providing year-round interest with minimal care. It's particularly effective for underplanting shrubs, covering banks and slopes, or filling in shaded garden areas. Regular watering during establishment and occasional trimming to control spread are recommended.

Form:

• Ground Cover

Mature Size:

• Height: 10–15 cm
• Width: 30–45 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade
• Full Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers from Mid-Spring to Early Autumn

Flower Colour:

• Violet-Blue

Key Attributes:

• Evergreen
• Drought Tolerant
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant
• Low Maintenance
• Suitable for Ground Cover
• Ideal for Banks and Slopes
• Effective for Underplanting Shrubs

Toxicity:

• No known toxicity to humans or animals.

Companion Plants:

• Hosta spp.
• Ferns (e.g., Dryopteris spp.)
• Heuchera spp. (Coral Bells)
• Astilbe spp.
• Pulmonaria spp. (Lungwort)