Flowers have a way of capturing hearts, and the periwinkle is no exception. With its soothing hues and unfussy charm, it’s no wonder people are curious about the different types of periwinkle flowers available. Whether you're into floristry, home gardening, or simply love a bit of floral beauty in your day, this guide was made with you in mind.
These hardy little blooms are more than just ground cover. They’re symbols of serenity, resilience, and timeless beauty. But not all periwinkles are the same. In fact, there’s more variety to this humble flower than you might expect.
Let’s explore the different types of periwinkle flowers, their unique characteristics, and how they will perfectly complement your garden and bouquet.
1. Vinca Minor (Lesser Periwinkle)
Vinca minor is the go-to option for people looking to cover ground space quickly and neatly. This hardy evergreen spreads effortlessly across gardens, creating a soft carpet of lush green foliage dotted with delicate flowers.
- Blooms: Typically violet-blue, but some cultivars bloom in white or lavender shades. The flowers are about 2 to 3 centimetres wide and have five smooth petals arranged like a pinwheel.
- Foliage: The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and dark green with a leathery texture. They form a dense mat, making this plant a great natural weed suppressant.
- Behaviour: It’s a low-growing plant that rarely exceeds 15 centimetres in height. It spreads by trailing stems that root as they touch the soil, making it perfect for filling in awkward garden corners, slopes, or beneath trees.
- Climate Fit: Thrives in temperate and tropical climates, including Singapore, especially in shaded or semi-shaded areas.
2. Vinca Major (Greater Periwinkle)
Think of Vinca major as Vinca minor’s bolder cousin. With larger leaves and blooms, this variety makes more of a statement and works well for creating defined floral borders or covering large spaces with a touch of elegance.
- Blooms: Slightly larger than Vinca minor, the flowers can span 4 to 5 centimetres. They typically appear in shades of blue or purple but can sometimes be found in white.
- Foliage: Glossy, ovate leaves that can grow up to 8 centimetres long. Some cultivars feature variegated leaves with creamy white or yellow edges, adding extra visual interest.
- Growth Habit: Vigorous and slightly more aggressive in spreading. Vines can reach lengths of up to 2 metres, so regular trimming may be needed if you don’t want them taking over your garden.
- Use: Great for larger landscapes, vertical spaces like trellises, or dramatic hanging baskets on balconies.
3. Catharanthus Roseus (Madagascar Periwinkle)
Unlike the Vinca species, Catharanthus roseus comes from an entirely different genus but shares enough similarities to carry the periwinkle name. This tropical beauty is more upright and bushy, rather than sprawling, making it ideal for potted arrangements and fresh floral gifts.
- Blooms: The colours range widely, from classic pinks and whites to deep reds, purples, and even bi-colour variants. The flowers are flat, with a contrasting eye in the centre.
- Foliage: Smooth, dark green leaves that are pointed at both ends. The plant itself grows in a bush-like shape, usually around 30 to 60 centimetres tall.
- Special Feature: Known for its medicinal properties, it’s been used in traditional medicine and cancer research. It contains alkaloids that have helped develop life-saving drugs like vincristine.
- Use in Singapore: Popular in balcony planters and urban gardens, especially due to its tolerance to heat and humidity.
4. Alba (White Periwinkle)
If minimalism is your style, Alba offers exactly that. This white version of the Madagascar periwinkle gives off an ethereal charm, often used in bridal bouquets, peaceful garden nooks, and contemplative floral arrangements.
- Blooms: Crisp white petals that sometimes have a pale yellow or faint green centre. They measure roughly 4 to 5 centimetres in diameter and bloom profusely throughout the year.
- Visual Appeal: Their stark whiteness contrasts beautifully against dark green leaves, making them stand out even in shaded spots.
- Symbolism: Often associated with purity, remembrance, and new beginnings.
- Pairing Tip: Combine with baby’s breath or soft pink roses for an elegant arrangement that suits both weddings and sympathy occasions.
5. Apricot Delight
This is one of the more exotic cultivars of the Madagascar periwinkle and is not something you’d typically find in an everyday florist's. But when you do, it's worth it. Apricot Delight brings a warm, golden blush to your floral palette.
- Blooms: Soft apricot petals with a delicate, rosy pink centre. Each flower has a subtle gradient that shifts colour as the bloom matures.
- Rarity: This variety is less common in mass landscaping and is often grown by specialty gardeners or used in high-end floral arrangements.
- Mood Setter: Its gentle, warm tones evoke comfort, optimism, and warmth. Perfect for thank-you bouquets or home centrepieces.
- Sunshine Friendly: Loves full sun, and blooms even more generously with 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
6. Peppermint Periwinkle
Fresh, cheerful, and slightly quirky, the Peppermint Periwinkle is for those who like their flowers with a twist. This variety features a central pink eye that pops against white petals, resembling peppermint candy.
- Blooms: Crisp white with a vivid, almost fuchsia-toned centre. Each bloom has a symmetrical, star-like appearance and measures around 4 centimetres.
- Cheer Factor: The bold contrast makes it a favourite for uplifting spaces, whether it’s your work desk, a hospital bedside table, or your kitchen window.
- Growth Style: Compact and tidy, it is ideal for small pots, hanging baskets, or box planters. In warm climates, it flowers almost year-round.
- Fun Fact: It's a favourite with butterflies, making it a great pick for pollinator-friendly gardens.
7. Blue Periwinkle
Blue periwinkle is the flower most people picture when the word “periwinkle” is mentioned. It’s elegant, calming, and endlessly versatile — perfect for both formal arrangements and laid-back floral styling.
- Blooms: Dreamy shades of lavender-blue that sometimes lean towards lilac, depending on lighting and soil conditions. The flowers are dainty and often appear in clusters.
- Calming Presence: Blue is a calming colour, making this variety a perfect choice for bedrooms, meditation corners, or as a subtle background plant.
- Traditional Use: Commonly found in older gardens and estate landscapes, often trailing under hedges or along stone paths.
- Low Fuss: It handles neglect like a pro; as long as the soil drains well, it’ll keep blooming.
Conclusion About The Types Of Periwinkles
There’s something quietly lovely about periwinkles. They’re not showy like roses or exotic like orchids, but hold their own with grace, persistence, and colour variety. Whether searching for a charming flower to brighten your home or a thoughtful gift for someone special, many periwinkle flowers offer something just right.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Types Of Periwinkles
What Are The Most Common Types Of Periwinkle Flowers?
The most common are Vinca minor, Vinca major, and Catharanthus roseus, each with unique sizes, colours, and growing habits.
Can Periwinkle Flowers Grow Indoors?
Yes, especially Catharanthus roseus. They do well in pots with good drainage and a sunny windowsill.
Are Periwinkle Flowers Edible?
No, periwinkle flowers are not edible and can be toxic if ingested, especially for pets and children.
Do Periwinkle Flowers Need A Lot Of Water?
Not at all. They prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering, making them easy to care for.
Are Periwinkle Plants Safe For Pets?
No. If eaten, all parts of the plant are toxic to cats and dogs, so it's best to keep them out of reach.
How Long Do Periwinkle Flowers Bloom?
Most types bloom from early spring to autumn, and in tropical climates, they may even bloom year-round.
