What to Plant with Vinca

Vinca, commonly known as periwinkle, is a beautiful groundcover plant with glossy oval leaves and trumpet-shaped violet or white flowers. It is great for borders, slopes, and filling in areas between pavers or stepping stones. However, planting just vinca by itself can create a monotonous look. To add more interest and diversity to your garden, consider pairing vinca with other plants that complement its features.

1. Hosta

Hosta and vinca are great partners because they both prefer shady areas and have contrasting leaf shapes and textures. Hosta has large, wide leaves with deep veins, while vinca has small, narrow leaves that form a dense mat. Plant them together in a curved border or near a tree for a dramatic effect. Hosta also blooms in the summer, producing tall spikes of white or pink flowers.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another shade-loving plant that pairs well with vinca. Just like hosta, ferns have different leaf shapes and textures than vinca, creating a diverse and interesting display. Ferns also provide a naturalistic look, adding a touch of wildness and mystery to your garden. Some good companion ferns for vinca include maidenhair fern, royal fern, and ostrich fern.

3. Lamium

Lamium, also known as dead nettle, is a low-growing groundcover plant that offers stunning foliage colors and patterns. It has heart-shaped leaves in shades of silver, green, and purple, giving it a variegated appearance that lights up shady areas. Lamium and vinca have similar growth habits and can be used together to create a colorful and textured groundcover. Lamium also produces small pink, white or yellow flowers that bloom from spring through fall.

4. Dianthus

Dianthus, or pinks, are small perennials that come in a wide range of colors, from white to pink, red, and purple. They bloom in the summer and have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies. Planting them with vinca creates a cottage garden style, where the informal and romantic feel is enhanced by the contrast between the dianthus' delicate flowers and the vinca's sturdy foliage.

5. Creeping Phlox

Creeping phlox is an easy-to-grow perennial that produces masses of colorful flowers in early spring. It is perfect for rock gardens or filling in gaps between stones or walls. Creeping phlox comes in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white, and provides a stunning contrast to the green or variegated foliage of vinca. Plant them together for a long-lasting display that will brighten up your early spring garden.

In conclusion, planting vinca with other companion plants not only adds variety and interest to your garden but also enhances their beauty and growth. By combining plants that have different textures, foliage colors, and blooming patterns, you can create a dynamic and harmonious landscape that is pleasing to the eye and beneficial to the environment. So, the next time you think of planting vinca, consider what to plant with it to create a stunning display that will bring joy and tranquility to your outdoor space.