BOWLES MYRTLE -

3-6 Inches Tall 12-18 Inches Wide--

Vinca minor 'Bowles', also known as 'Bowles's Mauve' or 'La Grave', is a refined selection of the common periwinkle that is highly regarded for its superior flowering habit and tidy growth. Unlike the standard species, 'Bowels' produces larger, more rounded flowers in a deep, rich shade of azure blue. Its foliage consists of glossy, leathery, dark green leaves that form a tight, evergreen mat, providing year-round interest and excellent soil coverage. It is generally less aggressive than other varieties, making it a more manageable choice for smaller garden spaces while still offering the reliable weed suppression and hardiness expected of the species.

For the best floral display, plant Vinca minor 'Bowles' in a spot that receives filtered sunlight or partial shade. While it can grow in deeper shade, a bit of morning sun helps to trigger a more profuse flush of those large blue blossoms in the spring. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, but it is quite capable of adapting to leaner soils once it is established. It is a perfect choice for underplanting shrubs, lining woodland walkways, or covering shaded slopes where a consistent, low-maintenance green carpet is needed. To maintain a rejuvenated appearance, you can lightly shear the patch every few years to encourage fresh, vigorous new growth.

Vinca minor 'Bowles'

Full Shade

blue flower

Zone: 4