Vinca minor Alba

Vinca minor Alba

Why Buy Me?

• Low growing, spreading
• Great for under planting taller plants
• Long flowering period
• Easy to grow

Growing Conditions

Light:
Partial to full shade. Ideal for planting under trees, along shaded borders, or in north- and east-facing areas. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates if soil remains consistently moist.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil. Grows in a wide variety of soil types including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH but is adaptable. Avoid poorly drained, soggy areas.

Exposure:
Performs well in both sheltered and moderately exposed spots. Hardy in USDA zones 4–9 (UK H5). Reliable in woodland gardens and urban settings alike.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate to high. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions, especially in shady areas. Benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells to maintain lush foliage and flower production.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in early spring or autumn when soil moisture is adequate and temperatures are mild. Can be planted year-round if the ground isn't frozen and watering is maintained.

Spacing:
Space 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart. Quickly spreads to form a dense, low mat about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) tall, covering ground effectively and suppressing weeds.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first season. After establishment, water only during extended dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support flowering and strong growth, although it's typically low-maintenance.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture and reduce weed competition. Prune or shear lightly after flowering to encourage compact growth and control spread. Can be cut back hard in early spring if foliage becomes untidy.

Propagation:
Easy to propagate by division, layering, or softwood cuttings taken in spring or summer. Spreads naturally by rooting at nodes along trailing stems.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Blooms from mid to late spring (April–May) with clean white, star-like flowers that contrast beautifully with dark green foliage. One of the few white-flowering groundcovers for shady areas.

Summer:
Evergreen foliage stays vibrant and dense. In cooler areas or with occasional rain, sporadic flowers may continue into summer.

Autumn:
Foliage remains evergreen and attractive. Provides consistent groundcover as other plants die back.

Winter:
Evergreen in most regions. Maintains neat, low foliage throughout winter, offering structure and ground coverage year-round.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
White flowers attract early bees and other pollinators in spring. Dense foliage may provide shelter for insects and small wildlife. Not a major food source for birds or mammals.

Garden Use:
Excellent as a groundcover under trees, in shady borders, along pathways, banks, or slopes. Useful for erosion control and low-maintenance planting schemes. Suitable for urban gardens, wildlife-friendly spaces, or as a lawn alternative in difficult spots.

Companion Plants:
Combines well with shade-tolerant plants such as Ferns, Hellebores, Tiarella, Brunnera, Lamium, and Pulmonaria. White flowers make a striking contrast against darker foliage or brightly coloured spring bulbs like Crocus or Narcissus.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Vinca minor Alba. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.