Carolina Nature

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

Bigleaf Periwinkle (Vinca major)

Plantae>Magnoliophyta>Magnoliopsida>Gentianales>Apocynaceae>Vinca major L.

Bigleaf, or Greater Periwinkle is a rampant groundcover that persists and sometimes spreads from cultivation. Fortunately it doesn't seem to spread from seed in North Carolina. The almost cordate (heart-shaped) leaves are much larger and broader than those of the Common Periwinkle (Vinca minor).

Durham, NC 9/11/08.

Bigleaf Periwinkle (Vinca major)

It works well as a groundcover, taking over and preventing other plants from growing, but is not a good choice for gardeners who may someday be interested in growing wildflowers or other plants besides Periwinkle.

Durham, NC 4/11/05.

More information:
Invasive Plants of California's Wildland
USDA PLANTS

Recommended Tree, Shrub, and Woody Vine Identification Guides

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

All photographs and text ©2013 by Will Cook unless otherwise noted.