Vinca Minor 'Ralph Shugert' is a refined variegated selection of periwinkle ground cover, featuring glossy green leaves edged with crisp white margins. Its lavender blue flowers bloom in spring and contrast beautifully against the two toned foliage.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid spring with scattered summer rebloom
Light Requirements: Full shade to part shade; tolerates morning sun
Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well drained soil; adaptable to average garden soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers regular moisture, especially in heat
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer and rabbits
Native Status
This cultivar originates from the non native European species Vinca minor. While not native to North America, it is widely grown for ornamental ground cover in shaded gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides early nectar for Spring Azures and other shade tolerant butterfly species.
Bees
- Visited by honeybees and small ground nesting bees in early spring.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to establish a full carpet within two growing seasons.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent as an underplanting for trees and shrubs, slope stabilization, or as an evergreen filler in shady foundation plantings.
Companion Plants
- Ferns (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum') - Provide arching fronds and cool toned foliage that contrast well with variegated periwinkle.
- Tricyrtis hirta (Toad Lily) - Provides exotic looking flowers in late summer, adding late season color and contrast to evergreen mats.
- Heucherella 'Sweet Tea' - Adds warm toned foliage and spring flowers in shaded groupings with Vinca.
- Hosta 'Patriot' - Echoes white leaf margins and adds bolder texture for a striking shade combo.
- Liriope muscari - Offers grassy vertical interest and purple flower spikes that harmonize with Vinca blooms.