Definition

Noun: 1. A trailing evergreen plant: "Large periwinkle" refers to a specific perennial plant (Vinca major) known for its vigorous growth habit, trailing or spreading stems, and glossy, dark green leaves. It is commonly used as ground cover or in hanging baskets and window boxes. 2. An ornamental plant with blue-violet flowers: This plant is characterized by its showy, five-petaled flowers that are typically a shade of blue-violet, which appear in spring.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The large periwinkle has completely covered the shaded bank, suppressing weeds.
  • For the patio containers, we planted large periwinkle for its trailing foliage and spring color.
  • A large periwinkle is easier to grow in dry shade than many other ground covers.

Advanced Usage

• Horticultural Context: In gardening, "large periwinkle" is often discussed in terms of its growth rate, hardiness zones, and use in landscaping to control erosion on slopes.
  • Be mindful when planting large periwinkle, as it can become invasive in some regions.

Variants and Related Words

• Periwinkle (noun): This is the general common name for plants in the genus. "Large periwinkle" specifically denotes , while "common periwinkle" or "lesser periwinkle" typically refers to , a smaller, less vigorous species.
• Vinca major (noun): The botanical Latin name for the plant.
• Greater periwinkle (noun): A less common synonym for "large periwinkle".

Synonyms

• Greater periwinkle (n): An alternative common name.
• Blue periwinkle (n): A name sometimes used, emphasizing flower color.

Different Meanings

• Periwinkle (color): The word "periwinkle" alone can also refer to a pale purple or blue color, named after the flower of the common periwinkle plant (). This is a distinct meaning from the plant name "large periwinkle".
  • She painted the room a soft periwinkle blue. (This refers to the color, not the plant Vinca major).

Noun

1. plant having variegated foliage and used for window boxes