Vinca minor 'Bowles'

Vinca minor 'Bowles': A Refined Classic with Extra Bloom

Lush and elegant, Vinca minor 'Bowles' is a superior selection of periwinkle known for its vigorous growth, glossy foliage, and abundant blooms. In early spring, large, violet-blue flowers blanket the dense mat of rich green leaves, with sporadic rebloom into autumn. Spreading steadily but with refinement, it’s a top choice for shaded groundcover, effortlessly carpeting woodland floors, edging paths, or trailing down banks with evergreen grace.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 10–15 cm
• Spread: 60–90 cm, spreading by rooting stems
• Flower Colour: Deep violet-blue
• Flowering Period: Spring, with sporadic rebloom through fall
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green, oval leaves; evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates some sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to dry soil; adaptable to clay or loam

Uses and Benefits: Vinca minor 'Bowles' is an ideal groundcover for underplanting trees, covering slopes, or lining shady pathways. Its dense mat suppresses weeds and prevents erosion, while the evergreen foliage provides structure and polish throughout the year. Larger and more floriferous than typical vinca, this cultivar adds a refined, long-lasting layer of bloom to shaded areas.

Companion Plants: Pair 'Bowles' with Heuchera 'Berry Timeless', whose silvery-pink foliage and reblooming sprays of colour echo vinca’s floral notes. Add Astilbe 'Visions in Red' for upright plumes and contrasting form. Finish with Geranium 'Biokovo', a tidy, low-growing companion that brings soft pink blooms and a fragrant, resilient groundcovering edge.

Care Instructions: Plant in partial to full shade in well-drained soil. Water during establishment, then allow to dry between deep waterings. Trim back in early spring to rejuvenate foliage and control spread. This cultivar is low maintenance and rarely troubled by pests or disease.

History: Named for the Bowles family garden in England, Vinca minor 'Bowles' has been a trusted choice in European and North American landscapes for decades. It remains prized for its reliable performance, larger-than-average blooms, and ability to thrive in difficult shaded areas.

Final Thoughts: With its lush foliage, generous violet blooms, and evergreen reliability, Vinca minor 'Bowles' is a polished performer that brings quiet beauty and coverage to the shaded garden year after year.