Vinca major Alba

Vinca major 'Alba', also known as the white greater periwinkle, is a vigorous and hardy creeping perennial. Its long stems grow rapidly to form a thick groundcover that thrives in all types of soil, whether in shade or in the sun. Its beautiful evergreen green foliage provides a backdrop for the numerous white flowers that appear in spring. Perfect for spreading under trees, bushes, or even around large perennials and for covering bare soil, it will also thrive in a container and provide coverage throughout the year.

The white greater periwinkle is a creeping perennial belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It has long, woody stems at the base that root into the ground. This characteristic allows it to spread over an area of more than a square meter if not contained. Its stems are covered with oval, acuminate leaves in a dense, shiny green colour. The leaves are tough, evergreen, and, along with the interlacing stems, form a thick mat that is 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in) high. In spring, pretty white flowers bloom on this carpet, that brightens shaded areas and stands out against the foliage. The flowers consist of five lobes fused into a corolla, wider at the top, obliquely truncate, and measuring 4 cm (2in) in diameter. When fully open, they resemble those of Oleanders (without the colour), but are distinguished by a cleaner centre, with a touch of yellow.

Vinca major 'Alba' is a great choice for naturalising in areas that are often left bare and unappreciated. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. Whether at the base of a wall,  on a slope, or under a hedge, it will find nourishment and space to grow while providing evergreen vegetation and natural flowering. When suspended or planted in containers, it will create a beautiful trailing decorative display.