Vinca minor - Common, Lesser Periwinkle, Flower of Death, Creeping Myrtle, Blue Buttons

Origins Europe, Russia, Caucasus
Type Perennial (evergreen)
Hardiness Zones 4 - 9
Bloom Spring, may have repeat blooms in Summer, and Fall
Height 2 - 5 in (5 - 13 cm)

Cultivation 
Sun or semi-shade, most soils. Will spread, easily. May be considered invasive.

Propagation
By division (divide in Fall, Winter, or early Spring), or by cuttings (take these in Summer).

Other
Blooms come in abundance and great spectrum of color, from near white shade of blue to pale, and dark blue, and also in several variations of purple. All highly enhancing, particularly in woodland style garden setting. We have them growing really well, around our oak tree. Mixed up with moss, all looking very, very nice, indeed.
Vinca's leaves have application in medicinal remedies since ancient times. Their extracts, are said to stimulate blood flow, if taken internally. Externally, it's good for sores and inflammations. Periwinkle extracts make effective mouthwash component till these days. In Poland, it is customary to dress small, wicker baskets with Periwinkle greens, before filling them with decorated Easter eggs.
Caution - Don't make remedies for internal use, unless you contact specialist, first, particularly if in pregnancy, or weak health condition.

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References - Find more about: Hardiness Zones
Special Thanks
Special Thanks to Town & Country Gardens Contributors: Merilee Phillips / CC 2.0, dive-angel (Karin), flickr, Jasmine&Roses, Rita Crane Photography. Rita Crane, daughter of LIFE magazine photographer Ralph Crane. Her work can be seen on Flickr at Rita Crane Photography or on her website., TMR Davies, W.D. Williams

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