Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’
A jewel for the shady garden, Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ (lesser periwinkle) is a plant that works quietly in the background yet makes an unforgettable impression when in flower. This evergreen groundcover is prized for its ability to thrive where others fail, spreading steadily to create a carpet of glossy green leaves topped with an unusual flush of deep plum-purple blooms.
The flowers are particularly striking – a little darker and moodier than the usual blue periwinkle, with a velvety richness that catches the light beautifully. They appear generously from spring right through summer, and often surprise with a second flush in autumn, especially in warmer years. Combined with its neat foliage, it brings life and colour to places that can otherwise feel forgotten.
In the garden, ‘Atropurpurea’ is invaluable. It will spread across banks, cascade over walls, or knit together the bare soil beneath shrubs and trees. Its trailing stems root as they go, creating a living green mulch that helps to suppress weeds and hold in moisture. It’s particularly useful in dry shade, where few plants are at their best, and once settled in it needs very little attention.
Design-wise, it pairs beautifully with spring bulbs such as snowdrops, aconites, or dwarf narcissi, weaving around their stems to create a natural woodland feel. It also looks wonderful edging paths or softening the base of taller plantings, where its year-round leaves keep the garden looking neat and full.
Hardy, versatile, and utterly dependable, Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’ is the kind of plant you’ll find yourself grateful for year after year – a quiet star of the garden that gives more than it ever asks in return.
Key features:
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Evergreen groundcover with glossy, weed-suppressing foliage
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Deep plum-purple flowers from April into summer, with a second flush in autumn
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Excellent for dry shade, woodland gardens, and underplanting
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Low-maintenance and reliable once established
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Height: 10–15cm | Spread: up to 1.5m
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
