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Vinca minor
Common periwinkle

Culture: Vinca minor does best in shady sites with highly organic, well-drained soils. It can tolerate a full range of soil pH ranges, but when planted in full sun the leaves may discolor. It is a good selection for erosion control, and it tolerates both foot traffic and dog urine. It is best planted on 1' centers.

The species can suffer from blight, root rot, leaf spots, canker, and dieback. The latter two are the result of Phomopsis livella, which can kill the plant.

Usage: This species is probably one of the most prevalent groundcovers in the home landscape, and with good reason. It's glossy, dark, shade tolerant evergreen foliage makes an excellent cover for bulbs and other perennials, and its rapid growth rate and color also lend an air of lushness to a site.

 
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