Vinca major 'Variegata'
variegated vinca major
Cultivar; parent species native to western Mediterranean, southern Europe, North AfricaLearn more
Overview
Vinca major 'Variegata' is a trailing evergreen groundcover with arching stems reaching 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) tall and spreading 18–36 inches (45–90 cm) wide per season. Leaves are ovate to heart-shaped, 1.5–3 inches (4–8 cm) long, with a dark green center and irregular cream to pale yellow margins; leaf edge width varies from a narrow line to broad sectors occupying one-third or more of the blade. Stems root at nodes where they contact soil, though 'Variegata' spreads somewhat less rapidly than the all-green species. Solitary tubular-flared flowers, 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) across, appear in leaf axils from March through May with sporadic repeat bloom; flowers are blue-violet. The variegated foliage is less vigorous than the species and may revert to all-green in some conditions; remove all-green stems promptly to maintain the variegated character. Like V. major, this cultivar is listed as invasive in California, Oregon, and other western states and should not be planted near natural areas. All plant parts are toxic if ingested.
Native Range
This cultivar has no native range. The species, Vinca major, is native to the western Mediterranean region including southern France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and North Africa.Suggested Uses
Used as a groundcover in partially shaded borders, under trees, or in areas where the cream-and-green foliage provides visual contrast to darker surrounding plants. Commonly grown in hanging baskets and containers where the trailing stems display the variegated foliage. Not recommended near wildlands, natural areas, or riparian corridors in states where V. major is listed as invasive.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6" - 1'
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Primary bloom occurs March through May in zones 7–9. Sporadic secondary bloom continues through summer and into fall. In zones 9–10, bloom may begin in February. 'Variegata' flowers at the same time as the species; individual flowers last 3–5 days and the spring flush extends 6–8 weeks. Flowering may be slightly reduced compared to the all-green species due to lower chlorophyll content in variegated leaves.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
dark green center with irregular cream to pale yellow marginsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Space transplants 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart; 'Variegata' establishes more slowly than the species and may take 2–3 seasons to form a dense mat. Water weekly for the first two growing seasons. Established plants tolerate moderate drought but produce fewer flowers under prolonged dry conditions. Remove all-green reverting stems at the base as soon as observed to prevent them from overtaking the variegated portions. Fertilize lightly once in early spring; excessive nitrogen reduces variegation contrast. Shear plants to 3–4 inches (8–10 cm) in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth.Pruning
Shear or mow plants to 3–4 inches (8–10 cm) in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to rejuvenate the planting. Remove all-green reverting stems at any time of year by cutting them to the base. Cut back stems that extend beyond planting boundaries at any time during the growing season. Full renovation by cutting all stems to the ground can be performed in early spring; new shoots emerge within 3–4 weeks.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons